Central Capabilities to Well-Being in the Context of Forced Migration : A Scoping Review of Capability Approach-Based Literature

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the Capability Approach-based literature relevant to forced migrants’ valued capabilities to well-being. Its primary aim is to identify the capabilities that are of centrality to well-being within the context of forced migration. This research applies Naz’s (2020) methodological argument, identifying the elements of the ideal list of capabilities to well-being by reviewing literature, in the context of forced migration. Following Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) methodological framework for scoping studies, seven electronic databases were searched, resulting in the inclusion of ten peer-reviewed journal articles in this research. Using descriptive and thematic data analysis methods, this study reveals that forced migrants value three key capabilities: the Capability to Legality, which involves being able to be legally recognised and secure; the Capability to Education, which emphasises being able to be educated at various levels of learning; and the Capability to Sociality, which encompasses being able to be socially connected. While broader scoping reviews and further empirical studies are still highly recommended, the capabilities identified in this review have the potential to inform policies and services relevant to the context of forced migration, ultimately improving the overall well-being of forced migrants in host societies.