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Experiences of Unaccompanied Child Migrant Workers from West African Countries Living in Ghana

Author

Listed:
  • Mavis Dako-Gyeke

    (University of Ghana)

  • Richard Baffo Kodom

    (University of Manitoba)

  • Alhassan Sulemana

    (Memorial University of Newfoundland)

Abstract

While independent migration among children is common in West Africa, it has not received much attention in research and policy. Guided by the ecological systems and coping theories, the study explored the experiences of unaccompanied child migrant workers from selected West African countries who reside in Ghana. The objectives of the study were to explore (a) challenges encountered by unaccompanied child migrant workers and (b) coping strategies adopted by unaccompanied child migrant workers. A qualitative research design was adopted, and utilizing both purposive and snowball sampling techniques, 41 children were recruited as participants for the study. Focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted to gather data, which were analyzed thematically. The findings indicated that unaccompanied child migrant workers encountered challenges related to unstable and low daily income, lack of decent accommodation, labor exploitation and loss of income, as well as health issues. Furthermore, evidence showed that the unaccompanied child migrants used both problem-focused (assistance from social networks and support from migrant mutual aid groups) and emotion-focused (inner resources and distraction/avoidance) coping strategies to deal with the challenges they faced. Based on the findings of the study, conclusions and implications are discussed for policy and practice.

Suggested Citation

  • Mavis Dako-Gyeke & Richard Baffo Kodom & Alhassan Sulemana, 2023. "Experiences of Unaccompanied Child Migrant Workers from West African Countries Living in Ghana," Journal of International Migration and Integration, Springer, vol. 24(2), pages 527-546, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:joimai:v:24:y:2023:i:2:d:10.1007_s12134-022-00961-2
    DOI: 10.1007/s12134-022-00961-2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Eric Edmonds & Maheshwor Shrestha, 2009. "Children's Work and Independent Child Migration: A critical review," Papers inwopa586, Innocenti Working Papers.
    2. Hamenoo, Emma Seyram & Dwomoh, Emmanuel Aprakru & Dako-Gyeke, Mavis, 2018. "Child labour in Ghana: Implications for children's education and health," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 93(C), pages 248-254.
    3. repec:ilo:ilowps:460184 is not listed on IDEAS
    4. van de Glind, Hans., 2010. "Migration and child labour : exploring child migrant vulnerabilities and those of children left behind," ILO Working Papers 994601843402676, International Labour Organization.
    5. Shahin Yaqub, 2009. "Independent Child Migrants in Developing Countries: Unexplored links in migration and development," Papers inwopa09/62, Innocenti Working Papers.
    6. Richard Serbeh & Prince Osei-Wusu Adjei, 2020. "Social Networks and the Geographies of Young People’s Migration: Evidence from Independent Child Migration in Ghana," Journal of International Migration and Integration, Springer, vol. 21(1), pages 221-240, March.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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