Emotions

Chapter 5 examines the affective dimensions of the asylum process, considering the emotional challenges faced by assessors, the emotions expected of and felt by asylum seekers, and the institutional framing of emotions. It discusses how the demand for substantively demonstrating belief leads to extreme actions by nonreligious claimants in creating evidence to support their cases. The chapter emphasises the pressures and emotional environment surrounding asylum decisions. By analysing the emotional landscapes navigated by all parties involved, it highlights the need for more empathetic and psychologically informed approaches within the asylum adjudication system.