Left Behind, Left Out: The Impact on Children and Families of Mothers Migrating for Work Abroad: Summary Report

Abstract

The authors are emphatic in the view that there should be no restrictive policies on women migrants, respecting their right to choice of employment, notwithstanding the impact on the lives of the children of such migrants. However, it is recommended that policies on support systems for such children and families should be put in place, with many shortcomings in the present policy framework being identified. The report also analyses the emotional, psychological and physical well-being of the children, and their educational progress, in the absence of the mother. Recommendations for government, donors, NGOs and other stakeholders are also provided.