Hidden hardship of an unnoticed workforce
Refugees’ and migrants’ skills are often under-valued due to a lack of access to the formal Tunisian labour market. Their contributions to the Tunisian economy and its development remain largely invisible and unrecognised. What are their economic situations today? In which sectors do they work and contribute to the economy? What are their specific points of vulnerability and what are possible solutions to improve their lives?
This study provides:
— An updated overview of the economic situation of refugees and migrants in Tunisia, including their access to the labour market and their contribution to the local and national economy;
— Recommendations for the Tunisian authorities (national and local), international organisations, civil society and researchers.
Product details
Table of contents
Foreword.........................................................................................................................................................................06
Key findings..................................................................................................................................................................08
1. Introduction..........................................................................................................................................................11
2. Methodology........................................................................................................................................................14
2.1 Quantitative data.................................................................................................................................14
2.2 Qualitative data.....................................................................................................................................14
2.3 Analysis............................................................................................................................................................15
2.4 Validity and limitations.................................................................................................................15
3. Migration policy framework from a labour perspective.......................17
3.1 International legal frameworks..........................................................................................17
3.2 National policies....................................................................................................................................17
4. Migration dynamics to Tunisia..................................................................................................20
4.1 Key events and trends: 2000 to 2021.........................................................................20
4.2 Demographics of refugee and migrant
populations in Tunisia........................................................................................................................21
4.3 Key routes and drivers of migration to Tunisia..............................................21
5. Economic situation of refugees and migrants in Tunisia....................25
5.1 Searching for opportunities: access to and
availability of labour...........................................................................................................................25
5.2 Working conditions and risks...............................................................................................28
5.3 Viability of livelihoods and cost of living...............................................................30
5.4 Managing finances: access to services and remittances..................33
5.5 The stress multiplier effect of the COVID-19 crisis...................................35
6. The role of refugees and migrants in Tunisia’s economy....................37
6.1 Perceptions of contributions and labour market flexibility.............37
6.2 Skills and human capital versus demand
and access to opportunities.......................................................................................................38
6.3 Legal and societal considerations:
initiatives and good practices.................................................................................................39
7. Conclusion and Recommendations.....................................................................................42
7.1 Conclusion......................................................................................................................................................42
7.2 Recommendations...............................................................................................................................43
Annex 1. Qualitative data collection........................................................................................45
Annex 2. Supplementary 4Mi module....................................................................................46