Understanding the movements established in the Western Sahara region, from the end of the French colonization to the contemporary period – this is the main challenge of the CAPSAHARA project, promoted by CRIA – Research Network Centre in Anthropology at NOVA FCSH.
In the last 50 years or so, the populations of the region have experienced significant changes in their way of life, moving away from a secular history of nomadic pastoralism, while redefining their identity as inhabitants of urban spaces.
This change in social and political structures is a direct effect of the emergence of the nation-state and its understanding based on case studies – including specific configurations made based on social markers such as gender, age and class.
In the end, it is expected to be possible to go further in assessing and articulating with the social and political structures of the region.