This article contributes to the discussion on place/space/identity recently re-opened by David Turton, who introduces the notion of 'place-making project' to describe the relation between a group of Ethiopian agro-pastoralists and place. This article aims to expand Turton's framework to situations other than the one he depicts, as well as to develop some of the concepts presented therein. With reference to Afghans in Pakistan, the following arguments are made. First, a vast array of overlapping place-making projects simultaneously encompass territory and individuals, attributing a different significance to them on the basis of peculiar logics. Second, the interaction between such projects has material effects on spatial and institutional practices of migration and assistance. Third, these material effects have different significance for refugees, since each of them is differently encompassed by such projects. The article concludes by highlighting how such a framework can be used to assess power relations and challenge de-politicized narratives of refugee protection and assistance. © The Author [2007]. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.

Place-making projects Afghan refugees Refugee protection

international migration Pakistan Eurasia refugee territory South Asia Asia