Language analysis in the United Kingdom's refugee status determination system: seeing through policy claims about ‘expert knowledge’

Campbell, John

Abstract

This paper examines claims made about the role of 'expert knowledge' in analysing the language of individuals seeking asylum in the UK. I treat policy as a type of power and seek to understand how this policy uses the language of science to further the British governments stated interest to provide 'secure borders' and a 'safe heaven' for refugees. I look at how the Home Office defines, shapes and implements the policy and at how the policy has influenced judicial decisions. In short, I unmask UKBA's claim that it relies upon expert, scientific knowledge to assess asylum claims.

Citation

Campbell, J. (2013). Language analysis in the United Kingdom's refugee status determination system: seeing through policy claims about ‘expert knowledge’. Ethnic and Racial Studies, 36(4), 670-690. https://doi.org/10.1080/01419870.2011.634506

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Oct 19, 2011
• Online Publication Date: Jan 3, 2012
• Publication Date: May 1, 2013
• Deposit Date: Mar 30, 2012
• Journal: Ethnic and Racial Studies
• Print ISSN: 0141-9870
• Electronic ISSN: 1466-4356
• Publisher: Taylor and Francis Group
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 36
• Issue: 4
• Pages: 670-690
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/01419870.2011.634506
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01419870.2011.634506