Middle East Migration, Women's Empowerment and Changing Gender Roles in a Peasant Colonization Scheme in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Employment of women in the Middle Eastern countries have the consequence of changing gender roles of Sri Lankan women and empowering them in households as well as in their communities. This study examines these changes with particular reference to women in the Mahaweli settlements who are increasing leaving the country in search of employment and economic gains. Findings through a survey carried out reveal that not many changes were wrought at the community level, but at household level the women were able to effect some changes, although these changes were not sustainable.