Managing Family Opposition to Repatriation: The Case of Self-Initiated Senegalese Repatriates

This study aims to understand how self-initiated repatriates manage opposition from the extended national family during the decision-making process of returning to their home country. Based on 42 interviews with Senegalese self-initiated repatriates (SIRs), the process begins with a shared initial phase involving a projection strategy—anticipating and becoming aware of potential family resistance. This is followed by a second phase of implementation, divided into two distinct strategies: a concealment strategy for single repatriates and an affirmation strategy for those in a relationship. The former involves proactive behaviors aimed at shedding the image of a foreigner. It culminates in a focused effort to persuade the biparental core family. The latter strategy reflects a focus on the nuclear family, with the spouse's emotional support, and ends with a reduction of the family system. This research contributes to the literature in three key ways. First, it shows a process of managing the opposition of the national extended family, emphasizing individual agency in the repatriates' adjustment. Second, it introduces a new typology of family systems by distinguishing between the transnational family, the extended national family, the nuclear family, and the biparental family—an innovation in this field. Third, by focusing on Senegalese SIRs, this study sheds light on the realities of repatriation in an African context, complementing existing research that largely centers on Western countries.