Female Ethiopian Migrant Domestic Workers: An Analysis of Migration, Return-Migration and Reintegration Experiences
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Date
2014-10-17
Authors
Ketema, Naami
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
This study explores the different effects of gendered migration focusing on migration, return migration and reintegration challenges and opportunities facing female Ethiopian migrant returnees from Middle East countries. It looks into the different stages of migration to understand some of the cultural, economic and social transformations women domestic workers experience as immigrants and laborers in the Gulf region and upon their return to Ethiopia. In doing so, the study examines the different ways women try to renegotiate and reintegrate with their families and communities.
In-depth interviews with eighteen women returnees reveal the uneven distribution of experiences and outcomes of gendered migration. However, there exists some consistency in the disruptive and disempowering effect of these experiences in the destination countries that usually extend after return. Post return experiences reveal that the renegotiations of women returnees on issues of reception, economic betterment, relationship rebuilding and exercising agency with families and communities are often stressful, isolating and disempowering.
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Keywords
Domestic workers, Ethiopia, Middle East, Migration, Reintegration, Return Migration