Abstract

ECHEVERRI ZULUAGA, Jonathan  and  ACEVEDO SAENZ, Liza. Thinking through Errance: Journeying and Waiting among African Travelers in Quito and Dakar. Antipod. Rev. Antropol. Arqueol. [online]. 2018, n.32, pp.105-123. ISSN 1900-5407.  https://doi.org/10.7440/antipoda32.2018.05.

Since the beginning of the 21st century, Ecuador has been a point of transit but also of residence for migrants from around the world. While the attraction of this country resides in the flexible regulations of migration which stem from its policy of universal citizenship, the economic conditions there do not encourage migrants to stay. The starting point of this article is a previous study of the concept of errance which emerged from listening to the stories of Africans who were waiting in Dakar, Senegal, as they sought a way to leave from the continent from Africa. The article contrasts their experiences with those of other Africans who manage to cross the Atlantic and land in Quito. There are two options available for them: to either continue the journey toward the United States or remain in Ecuador. In both cases, migration policies, immigration papers and socialities are factors which shape their experience as travelers. For those who continue on their journey to the United States, the risks they run become a proof of their worthiness to be granted asylum.

Keywords : Africa; Ecuador; migration policy; Senegal; Errance.

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