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Protecting skilled Afghan women: Brain save and the politics of vulnerability

Author

Listed:
  • Kristin Bergtora Sandvik
  • Ingunn Bjørhaug
  • Astrid Espegren
  • Adèle Garnier

Abstract

Considering the Afghan evacuation of 2021 and its aftermath, this article suggests the term ‘brain save’ to characterise emerging protection discourses and practices concerning the resettlement of skilled women refugees. Resettlement has traditionally focused on women as vulnerable because of their gender. Drawing on examples of the evacuation and prospective resettlement of Afghan women professionals, the article develops the analytic concept of brain save to label these discourses and practices. Unlike ‘brain drain’, brain save challenges established politics of vulnerability and has progressive potential for resettlement as a durable solution. However, it also implies problematic prioritisation of particular resettlement candidates.

Suggested Citation

  • Kristin Bergtora Sandvik & Ingunn Bjørhaug & Astrid Espegren & Adèle Garnier, 2023. "Protecting skilled Afghan women: Brain save and the politics of vulnerability," Global Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, vol. 14(1), pages 5-15, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:glopol:v:14:y:2023:i:1:p:5-15
    DOI: 10.1111/1758-5899.13166
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. John Gibson & David McKenzie, 2011. "Eight Questions about Brain Drain," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 25(3), pages 107-128, Summer.
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    3. Felix Moos & C.S. Morrison, 1981. "The Vietnamese Refugees At Our Doorstep: Political Ambiguity And Successful Improvisation," Review of Policy Research, Policy Studies Organization, vol. 1(1), pages 28-46, August.
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