Abstract
This chapter reports on a study of the interrelationships between two migrant groups, namely Egyptians and Malawians, and South African Indians in Johannesburg. Based on a broader qualitative study that sought to understand the construction of migrant communities in Johannesburg, the study reveals that new migrant communities withdraw into enclaves, allowing new identities to emerge where social networks and social capital facilitate economic and social integration. In their search for community and a sense of belonging, migrants develop a contingent and instrumental solidarity, which closely relates to place and space. An interesting tension that was explored arose between African migrants and South African Indians concerning xenophobia and the migrants' claim of belonging to Africa, which at times resulted in a contingent solidarity and at other times an instrumental solidarity.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Mediating Xenophobia in Africa |
Subtitle of host publication | Unpacking Discourses of Migration, Belonging and Othering |
Publisher | Springer International Publishing |
Pages | 251-266 |
Number of pages | 16 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9783030612368 |
ISBN (Print) | 9783030612351 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 24 Nov 2020 |
Keywords
- Belonging
- Egyptians
- Malawians
- Solidarities
- Xenophobia
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Social Sciences