Gendered Family Dynamics, Waiting and Mobilities Across Borders: Syrian Refugees Navigating Displacement in Jordan

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the experiences of Syrian refugees living in Jordan and the relational ties they form and sustain across borders and within Jordan. The data was collected during 9 months of ethnographic research in Jordan. The findings from this research reveal the challenges Syrians face in waiting for reunification with their spouses and children in Europe, as well as the challenges of maintaining connections with family and friends still in Syria and in other countries. The findings draw attention to everyday practices during periods of waiting, including dealing with family dynamics and jealousy, and the coping strategies used to maintain relationships. They highlight the tensions, regrets, disclosures and silences affecting separated families. This chapter contributes to knowledge on waiting, family dynamics, gender and mobilities, deepening our understanding of social relationships and relational wellbeing during forced migration, to enable academics and policymakers to understand the complexity of refugees’ everyday experiences during displacement.