Sociology

Irregular migration is skilled migration: reimagining skill in EU's migration policies

D. Purkayastha, T. Bircan, et al.

This research by Damini Purkayastha, Tuba Bircan, Ahmad Wali Ahmad Yar, and Duha Ceylan reveals the untapped potential of irregular migrants in Europe, emphasizing their diverse skills and adaptability. Despite facing legal and social challenges, these migrants possess valuable contributions that challenge prevailing narratives. Discover how their stories highlight the need for a reimagined approach to migration.

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Abstract

This paper challenges the conventional view of irregular migration as solely a security threat or humanitarian concern, highlighting the significant skills and labor market potential of irregular migrants in Europe. Based on the lived experiences of 34 non-European migrants in Belgium, the study reveals high skill heterogeneity among irregular migrants, demonstrating that skills are dynamic and adaptable to migration trajectories. However, legal limbo and camp life lead to significant deskilling, and irregular migrants face exploitation and negative social discourses. The paper critiques the instrumentalization of 'skill' as an othering tool in EU migration policies, arguing for a reimagining of migration categories to address global inequalities and racial hierarchies.

Publisher

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

Published On

Jul 15, 2023

Authors

Damini Purkayastha, Tuba Bircan, Ahmad Wali Ahmad Yar, Duha Ceylan

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