How is the human existence changed by the experience of seeking refuge? What roles do terms such as ‘identity’, ‘foreignness’ or ‘home’ play in a refugee’s life? What does it mean to be almost exclusively perceived as a ‘refugee’ by Swiss society? How do experiences of racism and structural discrimination influence self-perception? Using personal experience as a starting point, Kanchana Chandran will analyse and discuss the question of identity from a sociological and journalistic perspective.

Kanchana Chandran, from Sri Lanka, has been living in Switzerland for 10 years. She had to leave her home due to her actions and work as a journalist. She studied social science at the University of Colombo. She currently works as a freelance journalist for Radio Lora, among other organisations, and as an education officer for the Swiss Refugee Council.

© Olaf Brachem