Dinâmica social e identidades transnacionais na África Ocidental: da antiga Senegâmbia aos desafios na fronteira dos estados-nações contemporâneos entre Guiné-Bissau e Senegal (1973-2023)

Abstract

The social dynamics in Casamance and Saint-Domingue are the result of the coexistence of different cultures, religions, and spiritualities within the structures of traditional institutions (ethnic groups) in these territories, which existed long before the colonial presence and the formation of contemporary nation-states, which occurred from the 1960s onward. This historical milestone reconfigured both regions and brought about a new form of social relations, marked by strong state intervention. This change has caused frustration and been marked by strong internal disputes, particularly regarding movements in areas constituted by artificial borders defined by colonization, as traditional institutions claim their heritage based on their histories established since ancient Senegambia. Therefore, this thesis's main objective is to study transnational identities in the postcolonial context in the regions of Casamance-Ziguinchor, in southern Senegal, and Cacheu, through the Saint- Domingue sector, in northern Guinea-Bissau. Thus, we sought to investigate how identities are negotiated and understand the sociocultural and historical relationships and dynamics between these two territories. The methodology used was as follows: on the one hand, bibliographical research, which allowed us to analyze official documents from both countries, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union (AU), and others; and on the other, field research, through which we gathered accounts from residents in both regions, government officials, and ECOWAS officials. The findings were important, as they demonstrated the complex situation of the populations living in the border zones between these two countries, who remain unable to move based on their traditional identities due to state control. The conflicts are a consequence of the blockade policy, and even ECOWAS's continued involvement has not had any effect on achieving peaceful solutions. Paths to peace must be found; otherwise, conflicts will continue to occur as long as states fail to recognize the historical legitimacy of these traditional institutions in these territories.