Migration across the Sahara in the anthropological perspective: An approach between theoretical studies and field observation.

Abstract

The Migration across the Sahara represents a complex human phenomenon that reveals cross-border social and cultural interactions. The anthropological perspective, through the integration of theoretical analysis and field observation, offers a more profound approach to understanding the dynamics of this phenomenon. From this premise, the study’s central problem arises from the following primary question: How can the anthropological approach interpret the phenomenon of trans-Saharan migration in light of the intersection between theoretical data and field observation?.   The research aims to explore inter-regional migration within Sub-Saharan Africa and its flows toward the North from an anthropological standpoint, elucidating its psychological and social impacts. It further seeks to clarify its role in perceived threats to national identities and the destabilization of demographic structures in transit and destination countries, while understanding these apprehensions through personal field experience.    Methodologically, the study employed a case study approach centered on trans-Saharan migration, utilizing: the descriptive method to outline the phenomenon and conceptualize it for the reader; the analytical method regarding events, ideas, and texts to comprehend the intellectual and social dimensions of the phenomenon; and the critical method concerning perceptions, attitudes, practices, and prejudices in the evaluation process.     The research reached several key findings, most notably: migration is a natural human movement that, in the African context, raises numerous concerns amidst civil wars and projects of displacement or demographic replacement, as exemplified by the Sudanese case. Furthermore, subjective experience and field research contribute to the development of the "scholarly self" and provide a deeper understanding of human nature and legitimate aspirations. Finally, the research recommends the localization of anthropological studies related to migration—particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa—and the reconstruction of objective analytical approaches.