Cultural identity, adaptation and well-being of Somali refugees in New Zealand

Abstract

This report on refugee adjusment to New Zealand society is the outcome of a brief piece of field research conducted with Somali refugees in New Zealand. My intention was to inquire into their socio-economic and cultural adaptation to a society which has very little in common with their own. The study is important in that it fills a research gap on Somali refugees and contributes to the very modest literature on refugee studies here in New Zealand. It also addresses real social concerns pertaining to refugee integration and is an emic voice - a refugee perspective on refugee problems. The main purpose of the research is to assess the relative importance of cultural identity to refugee adaptation and well-being. The research framework and principal objectives were formulated around theoretical perspectives adopted from alternative development and social constructionism. Qualitative methods including in-depth interviews, participant observation, personal experience and documentary data have been used to achieve the objectives of the research. The findings demonstrate that retention of cultural identity contributes significantly to refugee well-being and is vital for their successful adaptation into a new society. It enables refugees to cope with many adversities and function as normal human beings. Therefore, cultural identity maintenance is beneficial for both refugees and the wider society. As refugees' cultural needs cannot be separated from their socio-economic needs, the findings suggest that resettlement should encompass three simultaneous processes: (1) Restoration: or recovery of livelihoods and restoration of family, peace and a sense of control over their lives. (2) Re-adaptation: learning how to live in new material conditions and different cultural settings; enhancing the refugees' capabilities. (3) Retention: of the core values of Somali identity, i.e. language, religion and kin solidarity. The study further suggests that a solution to existing refugee problems lies in both providing adequate socio-economic support and tolerance and understanding of their cultural practices. Practical ways of enhancing refugees' chances for employment are recommended. It is proposed that, if refugees are given the enabling tools to become self-reliant, they would be able to address their own cultural needs.