Economy, emotion, empowerment: the rural to urban migration of women in contemporary Algeria

This thesis explores the topic of rural to urban female migration in Algeria, focusing on thespecific obstacles and opportunities these women face. By concentrating on individualexperiences and outcomes, the study investigates how financial restrictions, emotional barriers,and empowerment affect their migration journeys. The study emphasises the relevance ofgendered migration research, stating that understanding how gender affects migrationprocesses is critical for identifying gender-specific challenges and informing policydevelopment. The study's gender perspective aims to contribute to conversations abouturbanisation, gender relations, and social change in Algeria.This study uses a qualitative technique, including in-depth semi-structured interviews with20 Algerian women aged 24-38 who migrated between 2014 and 2022. This method allows fora thorough examination of their personal experiences and the varied reality of their migratoryjourneys. The study takes an interpretivist approach, emphasising the subjective experiencesand interpretations that these women assign to their migration.This study adds greatly to the academic understanding of female internal migration inAlgeria by filling gaps in the previous literature and offering specific insights into the economicand emotional aspects that influence migration decisions. It emphasises the importance ofadopting gender-specific migration policies and improves awareness of the various reasons forwomen's migration.The key findings show that financial restrictions limit women's capacity to move and getstable housing and employment in urban regions. Housing insecurity exacerbates emotions ofdisplacement and psychological stress, whereas employment options, while frequently few,play an important part in their adaptability and economic independence. Cultural shifts posesignificant identity and relational issues that require strong coping skills and resilience.Migration facilitates personal growth and empowerment, allowing women to questiontraditional gender stereotypes and seek greater autonomy and better life prospects.Finally, this study makes important policy recommendations to encourage societalprosperity. It emphasises the necessity of empathy and compassion in Algerian culture, as wellas measures that address the special obstacles that women encounter when migrating from ruralto urban areas. By sharing these women's stories and aspirations, the study hopes to raise socialawareness and promote future research on this vital problem in Algeria.