Immigrant Work and the Production of Italian Agrifood: The Variants of Subordinate Integration

The agri-food industry in Southern Europe and elsewhere is typically seen as a place of harsh exploitation of immigrant workers. This article aims to give a more comprehensive picture of immigrant work in the Italian agrifood system. Based on nine case studies of local production systems, it elaborates on the concept of “subordinate integration,” showing its different variants. In addition, it discusses the relationship between subordinate integration at work and different forms of social insertion on the territory, mainly focusing on the housing question. In conclusion, the social regulation of work in agriculture and the role of trade unions is highlighted.