An analysis of the legal challenges faced by African Immigrant Women Entrepreneurs (AIWES) in the UK

Hayibor, Vera (2024) An analysis of the legal challenges faced by African Immigrant Women Entrepreneurs (AIWES) in the UK. PhD thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

This research investigates the experiences of African immigrant women entrepreneurs (AIWE) in the United Kingdom using Scotland as a case study. It examines how the intricate interplay between socio-legal factors and the intersection of the multiple identities of the AIWE, i.e. race, ethnicity, immigration status, gender, and culture, shape their entrepreneurial journeys. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, incorporating auto-ethnography, ethnography, legal analysis, in-depth interviews, and case studies to comprehensively capture the multifaceted nature of these women's endeavours. This socio-legal research delves into the regulatory frameworks and institutional contexts that influence the establishment and operation of businesses owned by African immigrant women (AIW). By exploring the legal landscape, the study aims to identify enabling and inhibiting factors that contribute to the success or challenges faced by these entrepreneurs. This includes a detailed examination of immigration and labour law and policies, business regulations, and access to legal resources to identify provisions that create hurdles for AIWE entrepreneurship.

The qualitative dimension involves engaging directly with AIWEs in Scotland through observations and interviews. Twenty-five female African immigrant entrepreneurs and nine second-tier organisations in three major Scottish cities, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen, were interviewed via Zoom and in person. The interviews provide a platform for these women to share their narratives, aspirations, and challenges. The qualitative analysis seeks to uncover the economic, social, cultural and gender dynamics that shape their entrepreneurial identities and strategies. It also aims to highlight the role of government, social networks, mentorship, and community support in their business endeavours. Adopting the African feminist intersectionality legal framework provided the opportunity for a holistic analysis of the unique experiences of these women entrepreneurs.

This research contributes to academic and policy discourses by shedding light on the interplay of legal and social factors and how the intersection of multiidentities (Race, Ethnicity, Immigration status, and Gender) influences AIWE in the UK. This exploration offers insights into the unique challenges faced by this demographic, such as navigating legal framework, economic demands, social and cultural expectations, and overcoming gender biases. Furthermore, the study provides recommendations for policymakers, support organisations, and the community to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for African immigrant women entrepreneurs, enhancing their economic contributions and promoting diversity within the entrepreneurial landscape in the UK.

• Item Type: Thesis (PhD)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Additional Information: Supported by funding from Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFUND).
• Subjects: H Social Sciences > HQ The family. Marriage. Woman; K Law > K Law (General); K Law > KD England and Wales > KDC Scotland
• Colleges/Schools: College of Social Sciences > School of Law
• Supervisor's Name: Dukes, Professor Ruth, Pavlou, Dr. Vera and Thomas, Dr. Dania
• Date of Award: 2024
• Depositing User: Theses Team
• Unique ID: glathesis:2024-84423
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 02 Jul 2024 10:12
• Last Modified: 02 Jul 2024 10:12
• Thesis DOI: 10.5525/gla.thesis.84423
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/84423