The search for affirmation through emigration

Based on a qualitative study based on (50) semi-directive interviews with emigrants from Nefzaoua1 (Tunis), this article witnesses a renewed interest in the issue of identity construction through emigration. Thus, in a paradoxical context (being and becoming/ country of origin and foreigner), many young Tunisians experience an existential dilemma and difficulties in defining themselves, in putting their identities into words. Emigration takes on its meaning as an in-depth work of personal development. The purpose of our work is to contribute to show that the awareness of the miserable situation in the country of origin and the difficulty of the individual realization, incites the young people to turn their glances towards the foreigner for the foundation of an identity looked for outside the national territory. This study shows that when identity is weakened and uncertain, young people tend to cling to whatever they can. And indeed, emigration or the lost dream of an identity can appear as a privileged destiny and a defense mechanism to have a certain stability in the definition of self.