Not a “Typical Expat”: An Autoethnographic Account on Accessible Relocation

Abstract

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In this experience report, we report on the first author’s recent personal experience of relocation from Turkey to Germany as a postdoctoral researcher with a mobility disability. Here, we outline the details of the relocation process in three phases. In each phase, we share reflections on the relocation experience specifically outlining accessibility challenges. We focus on customizing existing and new access needs, dealing with language barriers as a blocker for interpersonal accessibility, but also discuss digital access, and visibility of access information in relation to connecting with local disabled communities. We refine our insights into lessons learnt from this process, outlining implications for policy makers, researchers and designers, academic community, as well as for the disabled community. Through this autoethnographic experience report, we aim to open a space to critically rethink accessibility on the move and the role of technology, specifically in the context of relocation.