Gölgelerde yaşamak: İstanbul'da Pakistanlı düzensiz göçmenlerin göç deneyimleri ve başa çıkma stratejileri

The study examines the survival and coping strategies of irregular migrants of Pakistani origin in Istanbul, with a particular emphasis on the network of individuals involved in facilitating irregular migration both at the migrants' origin and in the transit country. This study scrutinizes the facilitation and organization of irregular migration from different regions of Pakistan to European countries via Türkiye. The predominant trajectory followed by irregular migrants originating from Pakistan entailed traversing the territories of Iran and Türkiye. Later, they embark on a journey from Türkiye to Europe, crossing three distinct routes. The initial path leads them through Greece, followed by a subsequent passage via Bulgaria. Finally, they opt for a sea passage to reach the enchanting shores of Italy. This study's empirical data is derived from qualitative fieldwork conducted in various locations within Istanbul, by employing the snowball technique. A total of 28 semi-structured, in-depth interviews were carried out. This study explores the challenges faced by the participants who are sheltered in Istanbul without proper documentation. These challenges encompass a range of issues, including unhygienic living conditions, exploitation, apprehension regarding arrest and deportation, the threat of torture, financial loss, and the risk of being abducted by human smugglers. The study also investigates the intricate web of actors that participate in the cross-border movement of financial resources. It is found that the principal actors within this enterprise possess robust connections across international borders.