Embrace our differences ; investigation into the social vulnerability of migrant women in Rosengård Malmö & explore the roles of empowering approaches to address social vulnerabilities

Abstract: Immigrants, particularly unskilled ones from less developed countries, are identified as one of the most vulnerable groups worldwide. They face various difficulties in order to integrate into their new countries in virtue of cultural differences and inadequate competence and knowledge. An increasing group of them are excluded from the labour market and society which in turn exacerbate their vulnerability. Malmö is Sweden’s third biggest city, and one of its main political goals is to achieve sustainability including a multicultural and integrated city. However, the level of socio-economic segregation of “non-Scandinavian” in Malmö is reported to be high compared to the most of European cities. Applying the concept of vulnerability based on Misztal (2011) and Adger (2006) conceptualization, this project aims to examine what elements of vulnerability exist within Muslims migrant women in Rosengård, the most immigrant dense district in Malmö; also aimed to explore the role of non-governmental and governmental organizations in terms of addressing vulnerability and social exclusion of these women through improving their capabilities. Evidence from interviews, focus groups, and observations suggests that cultural differences and background have a very significant role in social exclusion and vulnerability of immigrants in general. These migrant women are imposed to cultural and religious limitations in terms of working in the labour market and social activities. Even though they may have strong relations and bonds with other immigrants/ similar people, they lack social ties outside of their community. The evidence shows there is a need to recognize the specific problems that increase the vulnerability of this group. The results also illustrate that the development of social networks between immigrants and the Swedish community is associated with dual benefits and contribute to reduce prejudice and tensions in the host society. The evidence indicates that migrant women involved in such networks show increasing capability, trust and mutual recognition what can contribute to decrease vulnerability and facilitate social integration. Moreover, the findings of this project support the conclusion that vulnerability and social exclusion seem to be sensitive regarding age, gender and ethnicity.