Exploring the vulnerability of asylum seekers in the UK

Asylum seekers living in the UK are identified as a vulnerable group in contemporary society. Empirical results from in-depth interviews are drawn upon in the paper to uncover the everyday experiences of asylum seekers. This material is then employed to engage critically with the concept of 'vulnerability'. Three main themes specifically structure the discussion: the interstitial position of asylum seekers in the nation state is explored; the spatial manifestations of vulnerability are identified; and the responses of individuals to their 'vulnerable' situation are highlighted. By drawing upon the specific example of this illustrative group, important theoretical implications for the understanding of 'vulnerability' are proposed. These include the importance of time-space relative to vulnerable populations and the potential cumulative effect of vulnerability. Finally, questions are raised as to how researchers investigate and represent 'vulnerable' populations. Copyright (c) 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.