Challenges 
Lower skilled women describe experiences with violence and discrimination as a driving factor for leaving their home countries. In relation to the lower skilled migrant women, the women’s narratives revealed that the drivers of migration linked to their country of origin where some have experienced discrimination, heavy and unequal work burdens based on gender division of labour and the lack of right to work, as well as domestic violence.

Our findings indicate that the majority of women are exposed to verbal, physical and/or sexual harassment in public spaces in Istanbul. The city itself is often one of the reasons they chose to remain in Turkey. However, cultural differences and exclusionary attitudes in Turkey often cause these women to feel excluded.

In Istanbul, many work without a work permit and without basic social security. Within the framework of informality, lack of standards on migrant domestic workers working and living conditions, the particularities of “home” as a workplace and privileged position of employers seem to reinforce the inequalities and vulnerabilities of women workers’ experience. Their coping strategies are not based on collective action, but rather individual-oriented and limited.

Despite the risks, many women feel it is worth migrating. Their desire and will to better their and their family members lives, as well as to leave behind patriarchal relations and ties becomes crystal clear when women’s gains and achievements from their employment are considered.