Migration of Sri Lankan Transnational Domestic Workers and Families Left Behind: Benefits vs. Social Costs

Abstract

The social cost of the increasing numbers of women migrants leaving the country as domestic workers, is many faceted. While migration has a negative impact on the emotional and sometimes physical well-being of the children, and even on married life, the economic gains from such migration is undeniable. This study is thus based on investigating the economic benefits and social costs of women’s migration, and devising means of minimising the social costs and maximising economic benefits. The paper provides the findings of a survey conducted by interviewing several migrant families and also gives policy recommendations based on the results of the survey.