Rights, Remittances and Reintegration: Women Migrant Workers and Returnees in Sri Lanka

Abstract

The women migrant works contribution to the national economy is the island’s biggest single source of external revenue. In spite of this contribution, they face social, political and cultural discrimination in the host country as well as in their own country. This publication highlights gaps between the rights of migrant workers under national and international laws and the reality of their shortcomings and poor implementation by the relevant authorities. The assumed link between remittances and economic wellbeing is analysed through a case study from the Southern region of the country and current policies and practices of relevance to the reintegration of women workers upon their return to their homes, is also assessed.