In this master's thesis, I explored certain issues related to recent social changes that provide insight into ensuring the well-being of a disadvantaged social group, migrants. In recent years, despite the increasing number of immigrants worldwide, especially refugees, insufficient attention has been paid to addressing their situation. While various international and national instruments assert declarative rights, immigrants often fall into a (void) space between systemic insecurity and humanitarian aid programs. Studies in Europe report low well-being among immigrants, often assessed by their position within the social structure, and sometimes as a result of discrimination in host societies. In my thesis, I give voice to immigrants by examining their migration experiences and the factors most associated with their well-being.
In the theoretical part, first I highlight aspects of migration that soon after their emergence inevitably turn from a humanitarian issue to a social field of criminality. Then, I describe the process of integration and the concept of interaction, which create the conditions for migration outcomes. Efforts for more positive outcomes for migrants must be based on human rights and proactive social pedagogical work. In the empirical part, I present the findings of qualitative research. Semi-structured interviews with six immigrants revealed challenges related to employment, social networks, and support services as key factors for more positive outcomes for immigrants. Immigrants need special attention as they are particularly vulnerable due to social conditions and unfamiliarity with the environment, yet on the other hand, they are very persistent and motivated to get back on their feet. Awareness of these issues will enable us to create a field of fair common living and working and enrich our own perspectives through the perspective of immigrants.
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