The role and identity loss of middle age and older women migrants in irregular migration movements: Silivri removal center example

The aim of this study is to reveal the relationship between the irregular migration phenomenon and the role and identity losses of middle-aged and older female migrants. Another aim of the study is to determine whether there is a relationship between socio-demographic indicators of middle-aged and older irregular migrants and role and identity losses. The research also aims to make inferences from current data on irregular migration movements and to increase the visibility of female migrants in irregular migration movements. Research population consisted of middle aged and older women migrants in irregular status in Turkey. The sample of the research consists of women of middle age and older living in the Silivri Removal Center. Qualitative research method was used in the research and semi-structured interview technique was used as data collection technique. According to the results of the research, immigrants have difficulties in accessing education, health and job opportunities due to their irregular immigrant status. This prevents them from performing their individual and social roles. In the context in which individuals complete their socialization, they also develop a social identity, intertwined with their individual identities. While people express themselves, they also benefit from these social identities. Another factor that shapes immigrants' perception of immigration is socio-demographic indicators. The ages, nationalities and educational backgrounds of immigrants affect their perception of immigration. For these reasons, it has been suggested that irregular migration phenomenon, social identity losses and socio-demographic indicators have a determining effect on the role and identity losses of migrants. These hypotheses have been confirmed.