Temporary Migrants from Southeast Asia in Australia: Lost Opportunities

Development studies scholarship often focuses on developing countries, but issues such as poverty and political disenfranchisement can also be seen in developed countries. This research explores the experiences of temporary migrant workers from Southeast Asia in Australia, highlighting the lack of political voice and pathway to permanent residency and citizenship. The research is informed by Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum's theoretical framework of capabilities, emphasizing the importance of providing migrants with political capabilities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Development studies scholarship primarily concentrates on developing countries, yet many of the same challenges are observed in developed nations, where migrants now make up a significant portion of the impoverished and politically marginalized population. In immigrant-receiving countries like Australia, temporary migrants from low-income households face the greatest risk of poor social and health outcomes. This research aims to explore the experiences of temporary migrant workers from Southeast Asia in Australia, highlighting that migrant workers, as a whole, lack a political voice and a clear pathway to permanent residency and citizenship. Drawing upon Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum's theoretical framework of capabilities, this Element emphasizes the importance of providing migrants with political capabilities, particularly in light of the growing global trend of temporary migration.

A sense of political agency and control over one's environment is considered a crucial capability within the framework. This Element underscores the need for migrants to be empowered with political rights and opportunities, enabling them to actively participate in the decision-making processes that affect their lives and communities. It recognizes that political empowerment is not only a matter of individual rights but also contributes to social and economic development.

The research findings shed light on the challenges faced by temporary migrant workers in Australia. They reveal that these workers often lack access to basic rights and protections, such as healthcare, legal assistance, and social security. They are often subjected to discrimination, exploitation, and abuse, both in the workplace and in their communities. Furthermore, the research highlights the lack of political representation and voice that these workers have in the Australian political landscape.

To address these challenges, there are several recommendations made in the research. These include improving access to legal services and protections for temporary migrant workers, promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and increasing political representation and participation of migrant communities. Additionally, policymakers and organizations should prioritize the development of policies that promote social cohesion, integration, and economic opportunities for all migrants, regardless of their legal status.

In conclusion, the research on temporary migrant workers in Australia highlights the need for political empowerment and recognition of the rights of these workers. It emphasizes the importance of providing them with access to basic rights and protections, promoting diversity and inclusion, and increasing their political representation and participation. By addressing these challenges, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all migrants, regardless of their legal status.

Weight: 116g
ISBN-13: 9781009224208