Overemployed migrant workers: Evidence from the Annual Population Survey for a ‘special model of gendered confidence’

Abstract

Long working hours among migrant workers have been regarded by academic studies both as a cause for concern and as a super-saving strategy for transnational investment back home. However, there is a lack of systematic research as to whether or not migrant workers find their working hours too long and wish to have them reduced. The evidence retrieved from the Annual Population Survey points to a marked desire among migrants to work shorter hours, despite the recessionary climate. By filling the research gap specifically in the reasons behind such a desire, this article informs not only equality policies but also improved management of supply–demand in the labour markets. Predicated on logistic regression modelling, the results suggest that using an intersectional approach by covering various demographic and work-related characteristics helps explain migrant workers’ demand for shorter hours. The influential factors considered are conceptually framed by advancing a ‘special model of gendered confidence’.