Home or Away: (re)negotiating identity through living in the ‘in-between’ – a qualitative investigation of the Kurdish diaspora in the United Kingdom

This study explores the experiences of eight Iraqi Kurdish (im)migrants in the United Kingdom through a ‘bottom-up’ approach, situated within the frameworks of ‘postcolonialism’ and ‘non-essentialism.’ Employing multimodal data collection techniques, including narratives, spoken and written accounts, and visual representations, the research aims to unravel the intricate process of negotiating cultural identities within the ‘in-between’ spaces,ultimately fostering a sense of home, and belonging in a new cultural setting.

Central to this exploration is the recognition that individual cultural identity plays a pivotal role in understanding the dynamics of cultural fluidity. The traditional rigidity associated with concepts of ‘culture’ and ‘identity’ has evolved into more adaptable notions, a paradigm shift that this study both underscores and substantiates. Through ‘thematic analysis,’ the findings reveal how Kurdish community members strive to preserve and enrich their Kurdish cultural identity while integrating with diverse cultural domains. Simultaneously, they adapt, harmonising their heritage with their new environment, resulting in hybrid identities that reconcile the past and present.

Despite facing challenges upon arrival in the UK and during the adaptation process, participants view these obstacles within a temporary context. Their ability to transform adversities into personal growth opportunities is a testament to their resilience. Furthermore, interaction with material culture catalyses participants’ adaptation, leading to novel inbetween identities that integrate diverse elements. This complex interplay highlights the multifaceted nature of migration and identity negotiation within a culturally diverse context.

The study draws from diverse theoretical frameworks, encompassing Holliday’s ‘small culture paradigm,’ Bhabha’s ‘hybridity’ and ‘third space,’ Said’s ‘orientalism,’ Miller’s exploration of material culture, and various other relevant theories. These frameworks provide a comprehensive interpretative lens. This research underscores the significance of cultural identity in the context of migration, offering empirical evidence of how individuals actively engage and thrive within the interstices of cultural diversity. By shedding light on the processes and mechanisms that underpin successful adaptation, this study contributes substantially to the evolving discourse on cultural identity, migration, and the intricate dynamics of belonging in an increasingly globalised world.