Internet and Social Media Use of Undocumented Migrants

Jussi S Jauhiainen,Miriam Tedeschi

doi:10.1007/978-3-030-68414-3_6

Abstract

AbstractThe internet and social media are crucial tools in asylum-related journeys and the lives of undocumented migrants in their destination countries. Many use the internet and social media in the country of origin to prepare and plan the trip, and their use becomes even more common during their asylum-related journeys. In the destination country, use of the internet and social media becomes a common, if not an everyday, necessity. In general, the digital divides diminish along their journeys to the destination countries.This chapter explores the access of undocumented migrants to the internet and social media applications; their ability to use them; and the impact of their use in their country of origin, during their journeys, and in the destination country (Finland). Internet and social media are important tools for building and maintaining social relationships; staying in touch with family; and finding a job, food and clothing, and shelter for the night. Finally, the chapter analyses rumours and misinformation on the internet and in social media, as well as among the migrants’ own networks.

Highlights

The internet and social media have become crucial tools for undocumented migrants and asylum seekers during their asylum-related journeys (Dekker and Engbersen 2014; Frouws et al 2016; Merisalo and Jauhiainen 2020a)
Rumours and misinformation are always part of social media in general, but we indicate what particularities exist in social media for undocumented migrants
We have explored the usage and role of the internet and social media, as well as the facilitated information exchanges, in undocumented migrants’ lives

Summary

Introduction

The internet and social media have become crucial tools for undocumented migrants and asylum seekers during their asylum-related journeys (Dekker and Engbersen 2014; Frouws et al 2016; Merisalo and Jauhiainen 2020a). The majority of undocumented migrants with whom we conducted the research were former asylum seekers who failed the asylum process in Finland; communication devices, the internet, and social media remained essential tools, even after the migrants’ change of legal status: ‘Digital spaces have become vital for people to relate to family and friends, receive information about the new society they live in and pass time’ (Witteborn 2014: 74). Skills, and opportunities to use these tools, the transition from asylum seeker to undocumented migrant did not substantially change their usage These were very important tools for developing and maintaining social networks and searching for, and receiving, relevant information.

Digital Divide

Internet and Social Media Usage among Undocumented Migrants

Facts and Rumours on the Internet and in Social Media Affecting Undocumented Migrants

Findings

Conclusions