South Asian Migration to Jordan: Expectation Versus Reality

This chapter delves into the nuanced dynamics of South Asian migration to Jordan, a subject often overshadowed in migration studies, by focusing on Jordan’s refugee population from conflict zones. Unlike its oil-rich Gulf neighbors, Jordan is equally becoming an attractive hub for South Asian migrant workers, who fill labor gaps in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and domestic work. It examines the research question: what are the realities of South Asian migration to Jordan in terms of employment, social integration, and economic impact compared to the expectations set by recruitment practices and bilateral agreements? The objective is to bring to light the realities of South Asian migration to Jordan compared to the expectations set by recruitment practices and bilateral agreements, aiming to provide a comprehensive analysis of employment, social integration, and economic impact. The sub-objectives include analyzing historical and current trends, evaluating the role of recruitment agencies, identifying challenges and opportunities, and assessing the economic and social impact of remittances in origin countries. Using qualitative methods, I analyze secondary data, such as reports from international nongovernmental organizations (INGOs) and media briefings. The analysis encompasses the examination of the kafala system and the role of recruitment agencies, focusing on the economic burdens faced by migrants, such as recruitment fees. The study also addresses skills mismatches and the gendered nature of migration, particularly in the garment industry. The key findings reveal that while Jordan offers significant employment opportunities for South Asian migrants, the realities often fall short of expectations due to various challenges, including high recruitment fees, restrictive employment conditions under the kafala system, and limited social protection. Despite these challenges, the adaptability and resilience of South Asian workers enable them to make substantial contributions to Jordan’s economy and send valuable remittances back to their home countries. The chapter underscores the need for continued academic research and policy development to maximize the benefits of migration for both the individuals involved and their countries of origin. This study contributes to the broader understanding of South-South migration and highlights the need for improved migrant protection and integration policies in Jordan.