What is the assurance that Liberia is safe? Factors motivating Liberian refugees to remain in Ghana

Abstract

Despite the currently peaceful state of Liberia, several thousands of Liberian refugees still remain in Ghana. This raises concern for debates and dialogue about what peace or political stability means to a refugee after civil war. This study therefore explored factors motivating Liberian refugees to remain in Ghana. Using a qualitative research design, 40 participants (females and males) were purposively recruited at a Refugee Camp in Ghana. Four focus group discussions (FGDs) and sixteen in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted. The FGDs and IDIs were audio-taped, transcribed, coded and analyzed thematically based on the objectives of the study. The findings revealed that the motivating factors related to: insecurity in Liberia, infrastructural challenges and unfavorable socioeconomic situation in Liberia, and resettlement opportunities in Ghana. Based on the findings of the study, implications are discussed for policy and social work practice