Social Integration and Identity Transformation of Migrant Workers in the Informal Sector: A Phenomenological Approach

Abstract

The integration of migrant workers, particularly in the informal sector, has become a critical area of study in migration research. While existing literature often addresses macro-level factors such as economic contributions and legal frameworks, the subjective experiences of migrants remain underexplored. There is a gap in understanding how migrant workers experience social integration, particularly through their interactions with community support networks and the impact of bureaucratic barriers. This study employs a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of migrant workers in the informal sector, aiming to answer how community support and legal challenges shape their social integration. In-depth interviews with 15 migrant workers revealed that community networks played a pivotal role in overcoming social isolation, while bureaucratic barriers significantly hindered their integration process. Additionally, the participants’ identity transformation and adaptation to new cultural contexts were key themes that emerged. These findings have significant implications for the field by emphasizing the critical role of social networks and personal identity in the migration process, which are often overlooked in policy discussions. The study contributes to the field by offering actionable insights for policymakers, suggesting that creating more inclusive systems that recognize the value of community support and address bureaucratic challenges can enhance the social integration of migrant workers.