Goals Without Means: The Economic Exclusion of Refugee Migrants

Abstract

This chapter unpacks the first theme of disrespect—the South Sudanese community’s claim of economic and social exclusion. Community members see employment as the main pathway to inclusion and to regain their security and dignity. These expectations, however, have not turned into reality and the community experiences high unemployment. After examining the main reasons for this, the chapter critically evaluates the claim that while low English language ability and limited skills proficiency make entry to the labour market difficult, the more critical issues are the less recognised discrimination and systemic barriers which block access to the labour market and which fall outside their influence. Analysis is presented to demonstrate the structural production of inequality under the thin veneer of formal equal opportunity rights. The personal and social costs of economic and social marginalisation are described, including the rising sense of being robbed of dignity, self-respect and respect from others.