Stigmatisation processes and populations’ responses in turbulent environments: A multi-site case study of the Hazaras in Quetta, Pakistan and the Afro-descendants in Cartagena, Colombia

This thesis explores the lived experiences of stigmatisation processes amongst the Hazaras in Quetta (Pakistan) and the Afro-descendants in Cartagena (Colombia) and how do these diverse dynamics shape the experiences of stigmatisation in each community. The study also analyses the responses to stigmatisation through absorptive, adaptive and transformative resilience strategies at the individual and community levels. In addition, it also explores how these strategies differ or overlap due to the differing historical, cultural, and socio-political contexts of each community. Utilising constructivist grounded theory through qualitative-driven research, the study explores the different processes of stigmatisation and response strategies. This research is based on fieldwork conducted during two extended field trips to Pakistan (Jan-Apr 2019) and Colombia (June-Sep 2019), including a pilot study in Colombia in Jan 2018. In total, 95 semi-structured interviews were conducted with the Hazaras and the Afro-descendant individuals, including 20 with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community-based organisations (CBOs). Unstructured observation of four areas were conducted that included Marriabad and Hazara Town in Quetta as well as Nelson Mandela and San Fernando in Cartagena. The research methods also included four in-depth interviews and 16 focus group discussions with the communities, utilising photo elicitation technique and stigmatisation tree exercises. The findings of the research revealed different kinds of ‘segregations’ that act as physical and sonic markers of area stigma. Thereby, accentuating inequalities and highlighting the symbolic limits of the areas the communities reside in. The thesis further proposes that the two groups living in the four areas have external markers associated to ‘visibility’ due to their physical features and cultural manifestations. The research emphasises on individual and collective resilience strategies such as ‘self-empowerment’, ‘processes of resignification’, ‘raising awareness’, ‘sonic appropriation’, ‘appropriation of space’, ‘blaming’, ‘pride’, ‘acceptance’, ‘confrontation’, ‘avoidance’ and ‘tactics’. As a result, the thesis adds to our knowledge of absorptive, adaptive and transformative resilience strategies that communities use to respond to stigma. The thesis contributes to the understanding of stigmatisation by concentrating on the contextual factors of forced migration, violence, and armed conflict.

Grantor dc:publisher

Oxford Brookes University

Author dc:creator

• Hashmi, Fatima

Contributors dc:contributor

• Brun, Cathrine
• Piquard, Brigitte

Statement dc:rights

• All rights reserved

Language dc:language

en

DOI dc:identifier

https://doi.org/10.24384/ptxw-kj55

OAI identifier oai:identifier

tle:0b076dd7-2f57-48ac-9b70-bed9c67f9e4d:d6bd9758-527a-46cd-bfe2-c433766e8fca:1