Life as a Dublin returnee : the psychological impact of being forcibly returned to Malta

Abstract

This research investigates the psychological impact of being forcibly returned to Malta under the Dublin Regulations (DR). In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with five male participants between the ages 21 to 35. Four of the participants are granted subsidiary protections, whilst the asylum application of one participant was rejected. The interviews were transcribed and later analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), which aims at exploring the lived experiences of individuals. Three superordinate themes emerged: (1) Struggle for Existence and Search for a Good Life, (2) Life taken Backwards, (3) Reactions and Coping. The findings highlight the motivation for leaving Malta. Moreover, the psychological impact of being ‘stuck’ in, yet rejected by Malta is identified and affective and coping responses are addressed. The results demonstrate that despite multiple revisions it remains highly questionable whether the DR are useful for any party involved.