Paper short abstract:

This paper examines the formation of informal solidarity networks that originated in Sweden, as a response to the increasing refused asylum applications of young Afghans. A group of static individuals has become a moving ally, expanding their local care beyond borders.

Paper long abstract:

Since the so-called refugee crisis of 2015, Sweden has

fallen from its prestigious symbol of "generosity", by

severely harshening its asylum reception policies. Many afghan asylum

seekers have gone from

"wanted" to "refused", after rebuilding their lives and learning the Swedish

language. A group of civil society volunteers and activists

organized local supports to help these younsgsters.

Throughout the process, a complex, multi-sited network of care

was established, beyond Swedish borders, to support Swedish-Afghans on

the move in Europe. Close relationships were kept between the

youngsters and their informal supporters, who helped them financially,

through crowdfundings and bank transfers; emotionally, by keeping in

touch through digital platforms, and frequent WhatsApping; and

pragmatically, by finding them new friends in transit, and providing

guidance throughout complex decision-making processes.

I have been following these

informal solidarity networks since May 2019, through my PhD fieldwork in

Lisbon and in Paris. Based on participatory observations, informal

solidarity initiatives, digital media platforms and in-depth interviews

with Swedish solidarians and Afghan asylum seekers; I explore these

relationships of care, its transformative impact on individuals and

local communities and its political significance. The relationships between participants are

contrasted with relevant anthropology literature, to make sense of their

symbolisms and nuances. I suggest that care and transgression are

modulated by particular intersubjectivities, shown in the singularity of

these very particular relationships, in a wider context of structural

violence, political resistance and mobility across borders.