The potential of private and public creative sector in the efficient cultural integration of Afghan refugees in Portugal

Abstract

Amid the growing influx of Afghan refugees following the Taliban resurgence in 2021, Portugal, with its emerging status as a host nation, faces both challenges and opportunities in refugee integration. This dissertation explores the role of Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs) in the integration of Afghan refugees in Portugal, focusing on their potential to foster social cohesion, cultural preservation, and community engagement. While previous literature has explored CCIs' role in refugee well-being in countries like the UK and Germany, this study aims to fill the gap in the Portuguese context. Using a mixed-methods approach, including interviews with Afghan refugees and stakeholders in Portugal’s CCI sector, the research investigates how creative fields such as music, arts, and cultural heritage can facilitate integration. By exploring the Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM) that has been resettled in Braga, the study emphasizes the potential of CCIs to bridge cultural divides, preserve Afghan heritage, and promote mutual understanding between refugees and host communities. The dissertation highlights the critical need for more targeted, culturally sensitive policies that address the specific challenges Afghan refugees face, such as language barriers and socio-economic hurdles while offering practical recommendations for the design and implementation of CCI-based integration programs. Findings reveal that CCIs are not only pivotal in easing cultural integration but also in providing Afghan refugees with a platform for identity reconstruction and community participation, helping foster a more inclusive society. This research contributes to the broader discourse on refugee integration, offering valuable insights for policymakers, NGOs, and cultural practitioners working in Portugal and similar contexts globally.

Date of Award	29 Nov 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Laura Castro (Supervisor)