“Homeward bound”: a systematic review of the repatriation literature

Abstract

The increased levels of foreign direct investment have been matched with increasing international assignments initiated by multinational enterprises (MNEs). The academic literature acknowledges the significance of the expatriation process, but the studies on the final phase of this process, repatriation, remain fragmented. This paper systematically reviews and analyses 129 articles published in peer-reviewed journals. It explores the issues and procedures associated with the repatriation phase and examines significant individual and organizational outcomes. The study identifies key themes in the repatriation literature, including repatriates’ readjustment and expectations upon return, coping strategies and identity change, knowledge management, organizational support, and repatriates’ career goals. Finally, the paper highlights the emerging issues in the repatriation literature and practice and provides an agenda for future research.