Master thesis : "Navigating Adversity and Uncertainty: A Qualitative Study on The Resilience Process Among Undocumented Migrant Women in Belgium"

Abstract

This thesis investigated the process of resilience among undocumented migrant women in Belgium, using multilevel analysis to identify key challenges and the main contributing factors to resilience at the individual and social level, as well as their aspirations and future goals. By shifting the focus from mere vulnerability to the dynamic interaction of challenges and developing resilience, this research aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the lived experiences of undocumented migrant women, placing them as active recipients of adversity. A qualitative methodological approach was employed, with data collected through participant observation and nine semi-structured interviews with undocumented migrant women living in the province of Liege. The findings revealed that undocumented migrant women interact and move within various levels of the socio-ecological environment, encountering elements that enhance resilience as well as barriers and challenges that can compromise their resilience. Structural and systemic barriers to regularization emerged as one of the main obstacles that further produced various forms of vulnerability, including economic vulnerabilities, precarious living conditions, limited access to health care, and forms of discrimination and prejudice. As for the contributing factors to resilience, at the individual level, faith and spirituality constituted one of the main attributes undocumented migrant women possess to face difficulties, along with various expressions of personal agency. At the social level, civil society organizations constitute the main contributing factor to resilience besides family and friends, and fellow undocumented migrant women. Finally, regularization stood out as a key aspiration for most undocumented women.