Abstract
This paper introduces the concept of bioviolence to examine systemic harm within the U.S. immigration detention system. Drawing on Foucault’s biopower and Kim’s (2023) bioneglect, bioviolence is defined as the chronic denial of basic necessities—such as hygiene, clean clothing, and safe environments—which disproportionately affects detainees with pre-existing health conditions. Through qualitative analysis of 108 cases across 82 detention facilities (2018–2024), the study argues that these conditions are not accidental but part of a deliberate strategy by ICE to create hostile environments that pressure detainees into accepting deportation. The paper explores how performative bureaucracy enables this abuse, masking systemic neglect behind a façade of compliance. Findings reveal a pattern of deliberate indifference, where state power operates through the manipulation of basic human needs. This research calls for urgent reform and a rethinking of how violence is embedded in institutional processes.
Presenters
Beatriz Aldana MarquezAssistant Professor, Sociology, University of Connecticut, Connecticut, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Bioviolence Immigration Detention Biopower Bioneglect Performative Bureaucracy Human Rights
