A comparative analysis of Syrian and Venezuelan migrant employment in the informal markets of Türkiye and Colombia

Date

2024-6

Author

Çakar, Elif İpek

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The informal economy is an important option for migrants to secure their means of livelihood. Therefore, countries employ work permits to increase engagement in formal markets and protect rights of migrant workers. This dissertation conducts a comparative analysis of Syrian and Venezuelan migrant employment in the informal markets in Türkiye and Colombia, aiming to understand the prevalence of informality despite granted work permits. The reasons behind these population movements, the temporary protection status and work permits provided by the host countries, and the informal economy structures of Türkiye and Colombia are discussed. Utilizing secondary data analysis and a comparative case study method, the research integrates theoretical perspectives on informal economy with empirical evidence. The reasons of prevalence in the informal sectors are evaluated from the perspectives of Structuralist, Legalist, and Voluntarist theories. This dissertation posits that the substantial engagement of Syrian and Venezuelan forced migrants in the informal labor market in Türkiye and Colombia can be attributed to a complex interplay of factors influenced by the state's approach to managing informal employment among these forced migrants. Utilizing perspectives from the Structuralist, Legalist, and Voluntarist schools of thought, it contends that deficient state infrastructure, overly burdensome regulations, and state-induced circumstances driving forced migrants towards informal employment highlight the critical impact of the state's role. Despite the risks and vulnerabilities of informal employment, flexibility of working hours is the most significant factor directing employees to the informal market. This research concludes that legal regulations in Türkiye are stricter compared to Colombia.

Subject Keywords

Colombia, Informal economy, Migrant, Temporary protection status, Türkiye

URI

https://hdl.handle.net/11511/110072

Collections

Graduate School of Social Sciences, Thesis