Employment, Livelihood and Poverty Among Low-Income Migrants: A Theoretical Perspective

The study theoretically explores the interconnections between employment, livelihood, and poverty among low-income migrants in urban settings, emphasising the livelihood approach as a holistic framework.Migration, driven by rural poverty and unemployment, significantly impacts urban labour markets, with migrants often engaged in informal sectors characterised by precarious work conditions.The livelihood framework identifies five asset types-natural, physical, human, financial, and social capital-that influence migrants' ability to sustain their livelihoods amidst economic uncertainty.Urban poverty is portrayed as multifaceted, encompassing not only low income but also inadequate housing, limited access to services, and social marginalisation.The paper highlights that while migration can diversify income sources, it often leads to exploitation and instability.The study calls for inclusive urban development policies that address the unique challenges faced by migrant communities, advocating for job creation, skill development, and social protection to enhance their livelihoods and integrate them into sustainable urban planning processes.