Exploring the vulnerability of asylum seekers in the UK

Emma Stewart

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    73 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Asylum seekers living in the UK are identified as a vulnerable group in contemporary society. Empirical results from in-depth interviews are drawn upon in the paper to uncover the everyday experiences of asylum seekers. This material is then employed to engage critically with the concept of vulnerability. Three main themes specifically structure the discussion: the interstitial position of asylum seekers in the nation state is explored; the spatial manifestations of vulnerability are identified; and the responses of individuals to their vulnerable situation are highlighted. By drawing upon the specific example of this illustrative group, important theoretical implications for the understanding of vulnerability are proposed. These include the importance of time-space relative to vulnerable populations and the potential cumulative effect of vulnerability. Finally, questions are raised as to how researchers investigate and represent vulnerable populations.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)499-512
    Number of pages13
    JournalPopulation, Space and Place
    Volume11
    Issue number6
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Aug 2005

    Keywords

    • vulnerability
    • asylum seekers
    • exclusion
    • identity
    • UK immigration policy
    • urban geography

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Exploring the vulnerability of asylum seekers in the UK'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this