Around the World for a Better Life. Job Satisfaction and Social Inclusion of Migrants in Southern Italy

Although job satisfaction is a key facet of overall well-being, little is known about its determinants among migrant workers. The present study explores the link between job satisfaction and social integration among immigrants in the province of Foggia, southern Italy. Using an original dataset collected through surveys, we investigate the factors shaping both job satisfaction and social integration, as well as their interaction. The findings highlight the significant impact of working conditions (e.g., job security, safety measures, employer support) on migrants’ job satisfaction. Simultaneously, they suggest that social integration is strongly influenced by interpersonal relationships, language proficiency and experiences of discrimination. Notably, the results reveal a complex interaction between job satisfaction and social integration: while greater integration led to lower tolerance for poor working conditions, improved job satisfaction enhanced the perception of social inclusion. Accordingly, integration policies should extend beyond cultural assimilation to include improvements in labour market conditions. Likewise, enhancing job satisfaction may promote social integration, ultimately mitigating social tensions and increasing overall acceptance of immigration.