The authors' Master Thesis deals with work and employment of refugees living in Slovenia from the perspective of their own experience. It is based on ethnographic work in the form of participant observation and semi-structured interviews. Through the thesis the author analyzes empirical data, based on field notes, interviews and informal converstions, using a theoretical framework Work and employment are one of the key aspects of the integration of refugees into society. As a result of the states' conflicted attitude towards immigration refugees encounter fomal and informal obstacles while attempting to enter the workforce. As a result of their uncertain legal and social position and the lack of options and opportunities, they are disproportionally vulnerable to explotation and workers' rights violations. They are limited also by cultural and language barriers, social isolation and discrimination. Trough interlocutors' experience she shows that acces to work is a catalyst, that facilitates other aspects of integration. Lengthy waiting period for obtaining work permit and asylum process decision is the cause for deterioration of physical and mental health of immigrants which can leave long-lasting consequences. Despite the existance of legal basis and the efforts of researchers, activists and various organistions equal opportunities in employment are not present in practice. The content of the Thesis also adresses the consequences of measures, adopted during Covid-19 epidemic, on economic integration of interlocutors.
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