440Women and children’s experiences of international male migration for labour in Nepal

Abstract

Abstract Background At least 10% of the Nepalese population is estimated to be working abroad. Typically, those abroad are young men with families from agricultural backgrounds. Research regarding the impact on the family left behind in Nepal is growing but has focused on singular issues rather than the multifaceted effects of migration. This study aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of the challenges and benefits of migration for wives and children left behind. Methods Thirty-two qualitative semi-structured interviews were undertaken in Kathmandu and Kaski districts of Nepal. Eligible participants were women who had a husband who had migrated abroad for work and a child under the age of five. Interviews were conducted in Nepali, translated and transcribed to English, then coded and analysed using inductive Thematic Analysis. Results Three overarching themes were developed: Migration as a livelihood strategy, Migration as a trade-off, and Adaptation to the situation. The financial benefits of migration included improvements in children’s education and access to food and housing. Challenges identified were women’s increased labour burden inside and outside the home, psychosocial stress, and changed child-father relationships. Change in women’s empowerment was dependent on socio-demographic factors. Conclusions Migration often resulted in the improvement of economic circumstances. However, challenges being faced by women and children largely shifted from financial to emotional. Key messages The effects of migration are mediated by contextual factors. Given the ongoing reliance on migration for work, strategies should be employed to optimise the benefits and mitigate the consequences of those who remain.