‘A wedding through a piece of glass’: Transnational Tunisian family communication as driver of ICT adoption

Abstract

This study focuses on the role of ICT in transnational communication between family members, mainly between elderly parents and adult children living abroad. A semi-structured interview study ( N = 32) was conducted during Fall 2015 in three neighborhoods in the city of Sousse, Tunisia. In the study, Skype played a central role in the respondents’ transnational communication and a driving factor of technology adoption. Families used Skype to communicate with their migrant family members and virtually engage in family activities such as cooking and attending wedding events through the screens of their laptops, tablets, and mobile phones. In other words, Skype evolved from a simple online communication medium to a platform for a transnational family space; it assumes a Tunisian identity and essence stemming from the social practices and experiences of the Tunisian users and becomes shaped by their values and traditions.

Transnational Families: Maintaining Relationships Across Borders

“…However, the reliance on technology also brings to light issues of digital divide and accessibility. Not all family members have equal access to or proficiency with digital communication tools, which can exacerbate feelings of isolation and detachment (Toumi, 2022). Therefore, it's critical for families and policymakers to address these disparities to ensure that all family members can benefit from the connective potential of technology.…”