Water insecurity among seasonal agriculture workers: perspectives from Spanish professionals
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Date
2024-02-16Author
Rodríguez Guerrero, Luis Alejandro
Escrig Piñol, Astrid
Jiménez Lasserrotte, María del Mar
Pastor Bravo, María del Mar
Briones Vozmediano, Erica
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International Journal for Equity in Health 23 : (2024) //Article ID 31
Abstract
Background Migrant seasonal agricultural workers face conditions of material vulnerability such as inadequate
housing difficulties prevent access to running water supplies. The purpose of this study is to explore the perceptions
of professionals involved in the care and support of seasonal migrant agricultural workers, as it relates to water access
and water consumption and their impact on these workers’ health, in a context of COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A
qualitative exploratory and descriptive study was conducted in 2021 as part of a larger research project, based on
63 personal semi-structured interviews with professionals who provided support to seasonal migrant agricultural
workers in three Spanish autonomous regions. COREQ checklist was used for reporting. The interviews were recorded,
transcribed, and imported into ATLAS.ti-9 for an inductive thematic analysis. Results: The results have been structured
into two main themes: (1) Accessing and obtaining water; and (2) Health problems related to water consumption.
Seasonal migrant agricultural workers experience barriers to obtaining safe water for hygiene, cleaning, food
preparation and drinking. The implementation of regulations to reduce COVID-19 transmission resulted in improved
hygiene levels in the migrants’ quarters, including access to safe drinking water. Conclusion: This study suggests
that water insecurity experienced by migrant seasonal agricultural workers in Spain results from their poor living
conditions and causes health problems related to a lack of hygiene and the use of unsafe water. Sustainable solutions
are needed beyond the pandemic in order to provide migrant workers with adequate living conditions and ensure
their water needs are fulfilled.