Gender Dynamics in the Context of Turkish Marriage Migration: The Case of Belgium

Abstract

This study focuses on gender aspects of Turkish migration to Western Europe, more specifically to Belgium. During the last few decades, marriage has become one of the few means for Turks to settle legally in Western Europe. On the basis of empirical data, mostly gathered using qualitative research methodologies, it is found that the interference between marriage and migration proves to be a crucial element in evaluating gender dimensions and the consequences for participation and integration in society and the socialization of future generations within Turkish communities in Western Europe. Arranged marriages fit well with migration ambitions of both the established Turkish communities in Western Europe and the emigration areas in Turkey. The strong Turkish nationalistic identification within the Turkish communities in Western Europe and the often hostile climate in which they live, give fuel to the continuation of these dynamics. Marriage being generally framed within the traditional cultural setting undergoes crucial modifications in the context of migration that have an influence on gender roles. Traditional gender roles are often accentuated but prove to be rather inadequate for adjusting to Western society.

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