Contextual Identity among Liberian Refugees in Ghana: Identity Salience in a Protracted Refugee Situation

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of a protracted refugee situation on identity among Liberian refugees in Ghana. A strong national identity was observed among Liberians within the context of Buduburam Refugee Camp, despite previous ethnic divisions in their home country during the two Liberian civil wars. According to social identity theory, individuals may hold several identities at one time, but the expression of these identities are dependent on context. Using a grounded theory approach, I find three theoretical explanations for this phenomenon. Three identity primes heightened the salience of being Liberian. First, identity discontinuity resulting from trauma focused awareness on shared past experiences, creating a shared generational identity among residents at Buduburam. Second, a shared refugee status, and third, shared perceptions of difference between the Liberians and Ghanaians, played key roles in activating and sustaining a collective national identity among Liberian refugees in Ghana.Related Articles Byrne, Jennifer, and Gregory C. Dixon. 2013. “.” Politics & Policy 42 (): 83‐116. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/polp.12002/abstract Catalinac, Amy L. 2007. “.” Politics & Policy 35 (): 58‐100. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2007.00049.x/abstract . 2011. “.” Politics & Policy 39 (): 271‐294. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2011.00291.x/abstract Related Media . n.d. “Home for Homeless People.” http://buduburam.com/ . 2014. “Liberian Refugees in Ghana.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k85CJe5JWAw