Suchergebnisse

Writing from detailed empirical studies of migration in South and South-east Asia and Africa, the contributors to this issue provide illustrations of the importance and normality of migration in rural life. The studies show that the relationship between migration and rural change is complex and context-specific. Migration has often increased inequality, but in many cases also supported vulnerable livelihoods. Much depends on the social processes at work, the ways in which identities shift through migration and how gendered ideologies of work are deployed and change. Labour mobility usually serves the interests of capital, in ensuring labour supply, and also, often, in dividing workers. However, the power of capital relative to labour is contingent. Explores ways in which public policies can support migrants by making migration less costly and more secure, through reducing discrimination and enhancing access to health care and other services. (Original abstract - amended)

Over 500,000 people are regularly engaged in seasonal migration for rice work into southern West Bengal. This study analysis social processes at work in the interactions between employers and workers, and the welfare/illfare outcomes. Group identities based on religion and ethnicity are strengthened through the experience of migration and deployed by some migrants to make this form of employment less degrading. In West Bengal seasonal migration can involve practical welfare gains. Importantly, an informal wage floor has been put into place and managed by the peasant union allied to the largest party in the Left Front regime. However, the costs and risks of migration remain high. (DSE/DÜI)