The economic outcomes of multiple and hybrid identities: The case of Turkish and Kurdish migrants and their descendants in Germany

• Applicant: Dr. Mehmet Rauf Kesici
• Subject Area: Empirical Social Research ; Sociological Theory ; Economic Policy, Applied Economics ; Economic Theory
• Term: since 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 510754613

This research examines the relationships between the economic performance of Kurdish and Turkish migrants from Turkey and their descendants in Germany (KTMD) and their multiple and hybrid identities. Studying the multiple identities of migrants related to their economic activities is of utmost importance. Because it touches upon crucial socio-economic phenomena including ethnic diversity and labour market segmentation. Within this background, this research aims to clarify the impact of multiple and at times intersecting identities on the economic well-being of KTMD in Berlin. It is designed as a comparative case study to avoid claims based solely on one case and as a collaborative project in cooperation with a quantitative analysis of German survey data to improve the external validity of qualitative data on KTMD in Berlin. It will explore the differences and similarities between migrants and their descendants in terms of identities. I will also examine the effect of ethnic disparity and diversity (Kurdish and Turkish ethnic identities), religious diversity and differences (Alevi and Sunni identities), gender inequality and labour market patterns on identities, both within and outside the ethnic economy. The research, thus, has the potential to produce valuable data for proposing a combined migration and employment policy in Germany to meet the needs both of migrants and the economy.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants