The Role of the Social Environment and Social Capital in Improving the Welfare of Returning Migrants in Central Java

Abstract

The aims of this study are: (1) to explain the use of social capital in improving the welfare of returning migrant households; (2) to explain the interaction of the social environment and social capital in determining the welfare of the household; (3) identifying stakeholders in improving the welfare of returning migrants. The research design is a survey and case study. This study chose the research location in Central Java. Determination of the sample using the technique of multi-stages and purposive sampling. Collecting data using observation, structured interviews, and in-depth interviews.Data analysis uses descriptive statistics, the descriptive statistical and qualitative analysis and categorical. Return migrants more than 40 percent still maintain contact and always keep in touch. Actors involved in organizing return migrants are NGOs, companies, government, and religious organizations. The obstacle for returning migrants to increasing household welfare from the use of social capital is that there are still very few returning migrants who are members of organizations, those who join organizations are also just for non-productive communication, organizations are only a place to meet misses and mutual help. The social environment is more dominated by various traditional practices, limited to those who know them well, there is less innovation.