Negotiating Belonging: An Ethnographic Study of Tamil Asylum Seekers and Refugees in Australia

This thesis examines the experiences of Tamil asylum seekers and refugees in Australia, focusing on their struggles to negotiate belonging. Through ethnographic methods, including semi-structured interviews and photovoice, the research explores the socio-political challenges posed by Australian border policies like Operation Sovereign Borders, which perpetuate structural violence and dehumanisation. Despite these adversities, Tamil asylum seekers engage in acts of resistance and community building, asserting their agency and identity, overcoming the systemic injustices they face. This study addresses a critical gap in refugee and forced migration literature, advocating for more inclusive and compassionate policies that recognise the lived experiences and strength of marginalised communities.