Dealing with dying: Some anthropological reflections on the need for assistance by refugee relief programmes for bereavement and burial

Journal of Refugee Studies
Volume 3, Issue 3, 1990, Pages 228-243

Dealing with dying: Some anthropological reflections on the need for assistance by refugee relief programmes for bereavement and burial (Article)

Harrell-bond B.E.* , Wilson K.B.

^a Refugee Studies Programme, Queen Elizabeth House University of Oxford, United Kingdom
^b Refugee Studies Programme, Queen Elizabeth House University of Oxford, United Kingdom

Abstract

This paper explores how an anthropological understanding of death could inform relief provision so as to substantially improve the welfare of refugees. Most of the material is drawn from African examples. Even if effective assistance is provided, many refugees die during flight and exile. Using case material it is shown that despite the lack of resources, refugees continue to invest heavily in funeral and burial rites. Through lack of understanding, this behaviour often leads to conflict with relief officials. The paper argues that minimal support could make a substantial psycho-social contribution and have administrative and health benefits. © 1990 Oxford University Press.

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Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-0010556081&doi=10.1093%2fjrs%2f3.3.228&partnerID=40&md5=57fa091497d65f0a73d8aaadc254ad3d

DOI: 10.1093/jrs/3.3.228

ISSN: 09516328

Cited by: 21

Original Language: English