This thesis addresses the legal status and access to social rights of migrant women from third countries, mothers of children who are Slovenian citizens, with a particular focus on the period after the dissolution of marriage. The theoretical part presents the legal framework of Slove-nia’s migration policy, the system of social rights, and the position of single-parent families. The empirical part is based on a qualitative study conducted through interviews with women who, at the time of marital breakdown, held either temporary or permanent residence permits.
The findings show that legal status (temporary or permanent residence) is a key determinant of access to social rights. Participants holding temporary permits were, in most cases, excluded from social assistance and health insurance and could only claim a limited set of benefits (e.g., child allowance). In contrast, those with permanent residence permits had direct access to basic social transfers, which significantly reduced their social insecurity.
The women’s experiences also reveal multiple obstacles: lack of clear information, language and administrative barriers, dependence on their partner in handling procedures, and institutional practices that often fail to recognize their vulnerability. Housing exclusion stands out as a particular issue, since migrant women face significant barriers in accessing non-profit housing, which leads to housing insecurity. The research also highlights the link between domestic violence, dependence on the partner, and restricted access to rights, which further deepens their vulnerability.
In conclusion, the thesis demonstrates that the Slovenian social welfare system often treats migrant women without citizenship as second-class users, reinforcing feelings of discrimination and exclusion. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how legal status and institutional limitations shape the everyday lives of single mothers from third countries, and how crucial social policies and social work practice are in addressing these challenges.
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