Intercultural Adaptive Communication Competence (Case Study on Afghan Refugee in Indonesia)

Abstract

The arrival of refugees to Indonesia for temporary refuge is a phenomenon that has occurred for a long time and has not been resolved until now. Families from Middle Eastern countries, especially Afghanistan, who were affected by the war chose to make Indonesia their second country for safety. After they settled in Indonesia, they were required to adjust or enter the adaptation phase. In terms of culture and language, Indonesia is clearly different from their home country and this is a challenge for refugees. This study uses a qualitative ethnographic method approach, where data is taken from interviews with selected refugees who live together in the South Tangerang area. Interviews were analyzed based on the concept of five competencies in cross-cultural communication initiated by Michael Byram. The results of the study stated that refugees match with competencies during their adaptation in communication after relocation to Indonesia.