Migrant women waste collectors: The Southeast Anatolia region examole

This thesis aims to examine the daily life practices, labor experiences, potential problems encountered in the public sphere, and adaptation strategies of Syrian migrant women waste collectors who have experienced forced migration, within the framework of a phenomenological design using qualitative research methods. The study focuses on the invisible labor, perceptions of security, health aspects, the informal and precarious work environment, solidarity networks, and womanhood experiences of migrant women in the waste collection process. How migrant women cope with both the difficulties caused by the migration process and the physical, social, and security risks arising from working in the physically demanding waste collection industry is a significant research gap in the literature. This study is unique in its contribution to the literature because it focuses on the gender-based experiences of women in waste collection, particularly in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Turkey. The study group consists of migrant women waste collectors with varying ages and experience levels. The research findings indicate that language barriers, precarious working conditions, flexible working hours, and economic necessities are decisive factors in migrant women's decision to engage in waste collection. The study's findings reveal that women face physical hardship, safety and harassment concerns, health risks, and social exclusion during the work process; however, they attempt to cope with these risks by developing collective relationships and individual strategies. The study aims to contribute to the literature on migration, gender, and labor by making visible the experiences of migrant women waste collectors. Furthermore, based on the findings of this study, recommendations are offered for social policy and local government practices. Keywords: Syria, Forced migration, migrant women, waste picking, invisible labor