South Asian women in employment: The impact of migration, ethnic origin and the local economy

Abstract

Abstract This article presents original survey data on differences between Bangladeshis, Pakistanis, Sikhs and Gujaratis in Britain in terms of women's own employment and their household circumstances, including men's position in the labour market. In arguing that differential economic activity is largely explained by familial responsibilities and economic opportunities, it emphasises in particular the impact of migration and of the local economy. The article also assesses South Asian women's experience of domestic labour and gendered obligations in the context of extensive material disadvantage. While it explores various dimensions of exclusion, including racism, it concludes by identifying a number of key issues affecting women's employment prospects in the future.