Migrant Workers in the Construction Industry: A Bibliometric and Qualitative Content Analysis

The construction industry, a major global employer, increasingly relies on migrant construction workers (MCWs) to mitigate labor shortages and enhance cost efficiency. Despite their vital role, MCWs face numerous challenges, including exploitation during recruitment, safety risks, health issues, and difficulties with social integration. Current research into MCWs is dispersed across various disciplines—such as occupational safety, health, and social issues—and lacks a cohesive review of achievements and gaps. To address this, the present study employs bibliometric and qualitative content analysis to evaluate research progress, domains, hotspots, and trends from 2004 to 2024. The dataset, sourced from the Web of Science (WoS), includes 112 publications. The analysis reveals a steady growth in MCWs research, divided into two distinct phases, with significant contributions from 307 authors across 30 countries. The study also examines robust international collaboration and the prominent role of influential research institutions. The research identified ten key areas of focus and engaged in discussion. This comprehensive overview of MCWs research provides valuable insights for future studies and policy development, aiming to enhance conditions for MCWs and inform effective intervention strategies for this vulnerable workforce.