The Role of Refugee Labor in Konya's Agricultural Sector: An Evaluation through Local Actors

Abstract

Turkey holds a significant position globally in the agricultural sector. However, several factors, such as rural-to-urban migration, employment abroad, the reluctance of young adults to work in agriculture, climate change, and structural issues within the sector, have led to a decline in the number of domestic workers engaged in agriculture. The problem of employment in agriculture-based areas is tried to be solved through refugee labor. This study aims to explore the contributions of refugee labor to the agricultural sector in Konya by examining the perspectives of business owners operating in the sector, as well as institutional and local managers representing the agricultural industry. In addition, it seeks to understand the contributions of refugee labor, the challenges faced in this area, and the expectations and solutions proposed by these stakeholders. This study employs a qualitative methodology, using semi-structured interviews to thematically explore three key areas: the critical role of refugee labor in agriculture, the existing risks, and proposed solutions. The findings reveal that the labor shortage in agriculture is being mitigated by the employment of refugee labor. Additionally, the study identifies that issues related to residency and work permits for refugees have led to an increase in informal employment within the sector.

Turkey holds a significant position globally in the agricultural sector. However, several factors, such as rural-to-urban migration, employment abroad, the reluctance of young adults to work in agriculture, climate change, and structural issues within the sector, have led to a decline in the number of domestic workers engaged in agriculture. The problem of employment in agriculture-based areas is tried to be solved through refugee labor. This study aims to explore the contributions of refugee labor to the agricultural sector in Konya by examining the perspectives of business owners operating in the sector, as well as institutional and local managers representing the agricultural industry. In addition, it seeks to understand the contributions of refugee labor, the challenges faced in this area, and the expectations and solutions proposed by these stakeholders. This study employs a qualitative methodology, using semi-structured interviews to thematically explore three key areas: the critical role of refugee labor in agriculture, the existing risks, and proposed solutions. The findings reveal that the labor shortage in agriculture is being mitigated by the employment of refugee labor. Additionally, the study identifies that issues related to residency and work permits for refugees have led to an increase in informal employment within the sector.