Translocal Dynamics and (Im)Mobilities in Conflict

South Sudanese Refugees in Uganda

Bibliographic Data

ID24233326
AuthorsMarta Bivand Erdal (0000-0002-1398-098X), Cathrine Talleraas
Year2026
Pages45-60
Publication date2026-01-01
Open AccessYes
TypeCHAPTER
VenueTranslocal Lives in Times of Conflict (SOURCE_BOOK)
PublisherSpringer Nature Switzerland (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1007/978-3-032-25426-9_3
OpenAlexW7165560855
ISBN9783032254269
LanguageEN
References cited29

This chapter sheds light on transnational and translocal dynamics of (im)mobilities in conflict-affected settings, foregrounding temporal dimensions and advocating a non-linear approach to ‘forced migration’. Based on a 2022 survey among South Sudanese refugees in northern Uganda (n = 1008), mostly Dinka or Nuer, we show how displacement is shaped by past experiences, social ties, and ongoing mobility negotiations. First, we find that a third of respondents with partners were not co-located, highlighting spatial multiplicity. Second, over a quarter had returned to South Sudan, often repeatedly, navigating risks and routes. Third, analysing connections and migration aspirations pre-flight, we show that translocal networks and remittances existed—to varying extents—before displacement, reflecting long-standing cross-border ties. Finally, insights into refugees’ past migration considerations suggest that mobility was part of life in South Sudan for many. Through this analysis, we contribute to a temporal understanding of translocal lives in conflict, showing how current and future (im)mobilities must be interpreted also as a continuation of past connections.

conflict-affected settings · cross-border relations · Dinka · displacement · Forced migration · migration aspirations · Nuer · refugee mobility · remittances · return migration · South Sudanese refugees · translocal networks · Diaspora, migration, transnational identity · Migration and Exile Studies · Migration and Labor Dynamics

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