Young People, Migration and Metanarratives Arguments for a Critical Theoretical Approach

Abstract

In the context of the year 2007 being designated ‘European Year of Equal Opportunities for All’ and in the context of worldwide debates about migration, I undertake some initial explorations of issues concerning young people, migration and metanarratives. In this chapter I examine the metanarratives of childhood and youth as developmental stages in becoming adult — ‘becoming’ rather than ‘being’ — and metanarratives of nation and national identity. I explore some of the understandings and concepts that subvert each of these metanarratives and then analyse some of the British government’s welfare policies for young people and the effects of immigration policies on children and young people who are asylum seekers or refugees (survivors of forced migration). I argue that a critical approach is needed in order to address the particular issues for children and young people in these circumstances.