Negotiating Unwanted Outsider Status- A study of Gang Subculture among Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh

Abstract: The emergence of the refugee gang subculture has changed its focus from being a regional to a worldwide problem, drawing on the findings of previous studies. Many past studies suggest that the massive influx of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar has not only amplified existing socioeconomic challenges but has also fueled concerns within the host population in Bangladesh regarding organized gang violence. Despite the growing concern, research on the Rohingya refugee gang subculture in Bangladesh remains considerably limited compared to the rest of the world. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the dynamics of Rohingya gang subculture in and out of refugee camps in Bangladesh. Using a qualitative phenomenological research design, data was collected from Rohingya gang members, host representatives, and several KIIs to fulfill the study objectives. Applying the subculture of deviance and moral panic theory to the analysis of field data, this research identified several important findings as: (1) seven criminal gang networks, varying in size and style, were found operating in and out of Rohingya refugee camps, where mostly delinquent youth became violent adults criminals; (2) past traumatic experiences, collective denial of social citizenship, discrimination in Myanmar and Bangladeshi refugee camps, and gang addiction for identity were identified as primary drivers for signing up for Rohingya gang membership; (3) illegal drug and arms trafficking, abduction, and property theft were reported as common organized gang crimes; (4) senior mentorship, loyalty to partners, and justifying harms for domination mostly characterized the style of Rohingya gang criminality; (5) despite religious and cultural similarities, hosts were found worried about Rohingya gang violence. This research sheds light on the underpinnings of the Rohingya gang subculture in Bangladesh, but further investigation needs to be done on the media's role in spreading fear in host-refugee relationships.