Young carers from forced migration backgrounds: Transnational care as a practice of giving and receiving

Abstract

Although the asylum procedure marks the end of the journey for unaccompanied refugee minors in countries like Switzerland, many continue to experience precarious conditions due to contextual factors, such as unstable relationships or limited rights. However, some studies suggest that these young people see themselves as active and empowered individuals rather than as helpless victims. This article explores the largely unexamined position of migrant young carers, defined as unaccompanied minors with refugee backgrounds who regularly support or care for others. The article draws on data from an ethnographic longitudinal study in Switzerland to investigate how these youths navigate their dual roles as caregivers and care receivers within transnational care relations. The study sheds light on the positioning processes employed by the subjects and the diverse forms of (transnational) care work they perform, including emotional, familial and existential responsibilities.