Examining the problems of seasonal agricultural migrant workers from a social work perspective

Thanks to technological developments, the need for manpower has been reduced. However, this need in agricultural activities continues in most business lines. Due to the geographical location characteristics of Turkey, many products are grown at different times during the year. Seasonal migrant agricultural workers take responsibility in agricultural works that create intense labor need in a short time. Seasonal migrant agricultural workers, who migrate mostly from the East and Southeast regions, take responsibility for the harvest of products such as hazelnuts, citrus fruits and apricots. Workers migrate on average every 30-40 days to meet the labor needs of a different product for seasonally harvesting or planting, planting and maintenance work in different regions. In this process, workers are faced with problems such as accommodation, working conditions, occupational health and safety, and lack of access to resources. In this research, it is aimed to define and observe the problems faced by seasonal migratory agricultural workers and to find solutions within the framework of social work profession practices. Qualitative research method was used in the research, and data on the problems faced by the participants and their perspectives on their own situation were tried to be obtained by using a semi-structured questionnaire. In the research, it has been determined that seasonal migrant agricultural workers mostly stay in the provinces where they migrate to work by their own means. Accommodation areas are unprotected and do not have access to basic needs such as electricity and water. No formal employment is provided, their working hours are long and their earnings are below the minimum wage. Occupational health and safety precautions are not taken and personal protective equipment is not used. They have limited access to resources and services. As a result of the research, the application of the intervention methods used in the social work profession in this field was discussed.