Feminization of labour migration from Uzbekistan to Turkey: the role of neoliberal policies, patriarchy and social networks

Sebnem Koser Akcapar and Dilek Çakır

Central Asian Survey, 2025, vol. 44, issue 3, 325-345

Abstract: This paper mainly explores the intricate dynamics of the feminization of migration from Uzbekistan to Turkey. The implementation of neoliberal policies in Uzbekistan since the early 2000s has resulted in a significant rise in labour migration, concurrently changing the traditional pattern of male-dominated migration and fostering a shift toward the feminization of migration, especially in Turkey. Data was collected through extensive fieldwork carried out in both countries, where we conducted face-to-face interviews with migrants, employers, policymakers and other key stakeholders. In exploring the interplay of neoliberalism, family dynamics, gender roles and social networks, this study reveals a noteworthy pattern observed among Uzbek female migrants in Turkey. The findings indicate that while migration offers economic independence and emancipation at first, many ultimately find themselves perpetuating age-old patriarchal norms in the destination country – coined as ‘patriarchal reaffirmation’ to describe the dilemma of escaping patriarchy yet finding oneself trapped in it once again.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1080/02634937.2024.2402888

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