Labour migrant integration in Georgia: trends and challenges

Abstract

In the wake of the Soviet Union's dissolution, Georgia experienced a seismic shift in migration patterns, initially witnessing a notable outflow of its population. However, recent years have seen a significant reversal, marked by a substantial influx of immigrants. This surge is underscored by statistics; the immigrant population soared from just over sixty-nine thousand in 2012 to a staggering 114,000 by 2023. Even amidst the formidable challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, including closed borders and stringent international travel restrictions, immigration to Georgia remained robust, tallying at 74,000 as of the year 2021, as reported by Geostat (2021). Moreover, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war since 2022 has acted as a catalyst for mass immigration to Georgia, a nation grappling with finite resources and capacities, thereby presenting a formidable challenge for modern Georgia, particularly concerning immigrant integration. Although the necessity of researching migrants' integration and economic activity in Georgia is evident, few scholars prioritize this area, often concentrating on emigration concerns instead. There exists a notable gap in literature addressing the challenges and opportunities faced by migrants in integrating into the local economy. Addressing this gap through comprehensive research can offer valuable insights into enhancing policies and initiatives aimed at fostering migrant integration and socioeconomic contribution within Georgia. This paper endeavors to dissect the complexities of labor migrant integration with a central inquiry: What are the main challenges and opportunities of integration of labor migrants in Georgia? Anchored in qualitative sociological inquiries, this research engages with labor migrants themselves as well as experts in the field. Notably, this research represents a pioneering effort within the domain of migrant integration studies in the Georgian context. The discourse surrounding migration spans a spectrum of theories, each offering unique insights into the phenomenon. This study, in particular, draws upon several theoretical perspectives, including but not limited to classic theories, such are Neoclassical Theory, Migrant Network Theory, New Economic Theory of Labor Migration, as well as post-modern concepts in order to illuminate the multifaceted dynamics at play. Through rigorous investigation, the study sheds light on the myriad challenges confronting labor migrants throughout the integration process. Chief among these hurdles is the glaring absence of comprehensive legislation and immigration policy, which stands out as a defining feature of labor migration management in Georgia. Consequently, the integration trajectory unfolds in an ad hoc manner, with a segment of migrants—proficient in English and Russian and boasting high qualifications—finding themselves seamlessly assimilating and actively engaging with the local populace. Conversely, another subset of migrants faces formidable language barriers compounded by insufficient state support for language acquisition, leading to their gradual marginalization within the host community. This paper underscores the imperative of addressing the multifaceted challenges inherent in labor migrant integration in Georgia's urban centers in recent years, emphasizing the pressing need for comprehensive policy frameworks to facilitate smoother and more balanced integration processes. By grappling with these issues head-on, Georgia can harness the potential of diverse immigrant population, thereby fostering a more inclusive and resilient society.