Language, Informal Networks and Social Protection

Abstract

Rural–urban migration is a major phenomenon in the developing world. This article is concerned with understanding the ways in which rural–urban migrants have their social protection needs met following their move to the city. We report results from a survey of rural–urban migrants in four low-income areas in Cape Town, South Africa. We look at the experiences of migrants in terms of finding employment in the urban environment, and the impact of language background and proficiency on migrants' ability to integrate in the labour market, and their access to formal and informal protection and government support. Language proficiency and social networks emerge as important variables in the analysis and will need to be considered in the design of social policies. Specifically, inadequate knowledge of dominant urban languages (English and Afrikaans) limits opportunities for employment and access to public services. Furthermore, reliance on informal, strong-tie social networks facilitates initial migration and settlement, but can delay long-term integration into the urban economy and labour market.