An Empirical Evaluation of Eritrean Expatriates in the USA

Abstract

The number of Eritreans leaving Eritrea in search of a better life and future in foreign countries has increased in the past years As a consequence of the conflict that has erupted between Ethiopia and Eritrea Eritrean communities in the USA have established organizations and consortiums in order to encourage their members to work together towards common goals The aim of this research study is to investigate and evaluate the positive and negative sides of being a first-generation Eritrean expatriate in the USA through empirical qualitative interviews with 20 respondents The study begins with the backstory of the respondents regarding the reasons why they moved to the USA in the first place It then goes on to examine the respondents acculturation process in terms of Eritrean culture and American culture Furthermore the results from the interviews are analyzed and evaluated in terms of supporting and opposing arguments as well as implications applications and recommendations for future similar research projects The research study provides insight into the experiences of Eritrean expatriates in the USA making it useful for anyone who has an interest in the lives of expatriates Additionally it is believed that the findings of this research project will be useful for organizations that concern themselves with the welfare of Eritrean communities abroad