Paper short abstract:

Based on interviews in Casamance in 2019, we approach migration drivers by considering, paradoxically, the role of imaginaries of return as a powerful motivation to migrate. We argue that the imaginary of a “triumphant” return is an integral, if not inaugural, part of migration aspirations.

Paper long abstract:

The study of migration drivers generally relies on two fundamental sets of explanations: first, the search for better life conditions and opportunities; second, the escape from situations of persecution or generalized violence. These two primary drivers encompass multilayered and interacting factors intervening in the decision-making phase and throughout the migratory journey. However, the research on migration drivers analyzes the movement toward a destination and seldom considers processes of return. In contrast, the literature on return generally focuses on migrants already in a destination country who need to return. In this article, we reflect on the role of return in the migration decision-making process. We argue that an imagined “triumphant” return is an integral, if not inaugural, part of migration aspirations and decisions. Migrants’ imaginaries of a triumphant return must be integrated to researching migration aspirations and stand in contrast to experiences of the “non-triumphant” returnees who were deported or were unable to reach their destination. Basing our analysis on 34 semi-structured interviews conducted in Casamance with prospective migrants, returnees, local government agencies and (I)NGOs, we approach migration drivers by considering, paradoxically, the role of imaginaries of return as a powerful motivation to migrate. First, we identify the various vectors of imaginaries of return encountered during our fieldwork that fuel aspirations to (re)migrate. Second, we show how research participants mobilize an imaginary of return that reflects a quest for economic and symbolic capital.