Migrant Women and Dehumanization

Abstract

Dehumanization refers to the process of perceiving an individual or a group as inferior by stripping them of human qualities. This process is rooted in the denial of identity and community membership of those subjected to dehumanization. It involves a tendency to view individuals not as independent beings but as less human entities that may pose a threat to society. Often associated with violence in the literature, dehumanization legitimizes mistreatment and aggression against those who are not regarded as fully human. Migrants and women are frequently subjected to dehumanization, and migrant women, situated at the intersection of these identities, often experience compounded forms of discrimination and exclusion. This study seeks to offer a comprehensive account of dehumanization and to explore the underlying mechanisms through which migrants and women are subjected to it, drawing on illustrative examples from existing literature. The study reflects on the interplay of migration, media, political discourse, migration policies, empathy, social integration, and psychological resilience, with a particular focus on the experiences of migrant women in media representation and the labor market. Although dehumanization has emerged as a critical theme in migration research, the specific experiences of migrant women remain markedly underexplored. By addressing this gap, the study aims to enrich the existing literature and foster greater academic engagement with the issue.