Precarious placemaking amongst unaccompanied refugee minors: Three stories of connection and disconnection in Athens, Greece

Abstract

Through an in-depth ethnographic exploration of the experiences of three unaccompanied, undocumented boys recently arrived and living on the streets in Athens, this research sheds light on the ways in which placemaking and displacement are inextricably linked. Engaging with the question of ‘to what extent is placemaking present in the lived realities of recently arrived minors?’ the article exemplifies the ways in which people, even in the toughest circumstances, can eventually begin to connect to new locales. Yet, simultaneously, it also highlights the stark difficulty and absences of place connections that displaced populations experience in migration. Placemaking and the role of place, although fundamental in displacement experiences, is not necessarily tied into the priorities and planning of governments and aid organizations. Taking it into consideration for future displaced populations is of great importance.