The contribution of networks to immigrant insertion into the informal economy

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Abstract
Purpose – This article seeks to explain the role of networks in facilitating immigrant insertion into the labour market. Design/methodology/approach – Participant observation and semi-structured interviews were conducted in Tuscany in Italy with immigrants working in the agricultural, building and family care sectors. Findings – Networks have been discovered to play some role in providing information on vacancies but a less important role in providing guarantees to employers. Unlike much previous research, therefore, this study does not find that co-ethnic networks enable new immigrants to find jobs in the informal economy. Originality/value – This is one of the few contemporary empirical studies on immigrants in the informal economy in Italy and the role that networks play in gaining entry.