Migration of skilled Latin American women to Switzerland and their struggle for integration

Author(s) : Yvonne Riaño

Source: https://www.flacsoandes.edu.ec/web/imagesFTP/1295279037.Migration_of_Skilled_Latin_American_Women…_Yvonne_Riano.pdf

Abstract:

“Contemporary migration to the North is increasingly a female phenomenon. The literature has
interpreted the accompanying upsurge in binational marriages as reflecting the escape of unskilled women from poverty in the South. This paper argues that many female migrants are in
fact highly skilled, and that their binational marriages are not motivated chiefly by economics
but by reasons of love and gender representations. A differentiated view of female migrants and
of marriage migration is expounded, as revealed by testimonies of skilled Latin American
women in Switzerland. The methods of study include in-depth interviewing, participant
observation and focus groups. An analysis of the situation of social integration of these women
shows that the majority are either employed at a level well below their qualifications or are
excluded from the job market. This process has its roots in the prevailing discourses in Swiss
society, which have lead to social practices and immigration policies that effectively hinder the
social integration of female immigrants. In reaction to these barriers, the immigrant women have
created numerous action networks, which demonstrate their initiative and desire to participate in
Swiss society. The conclusion is a paradox: whereas Latin America loses valuable human
capital, Switzerland fails to take advantage of its gain in human capital.”

Keywords: skilled migrants, gender, marriage migration, migration trajectories, immigration
policy, foreigner discourses, women’s networks