Migration and Development
 Background
The process of migration affects a large number of individuals, households, and communities worldwide – including Pakistan. An estimated four million Pakistanis move abroad in search of livelihoods. Before the onset of the oil boom in the Middle East, Pakistan's migrant workers left for the UK and other Western countries. Since the 1970s, Gulf countries have opened job opportunities and absorbed millions of Pakistani workers. These migrant streams are associated with significant financial flows. During last fiscal year alone, migrants’ remittances exceeded Rs. 240 billion.
Focusing on migrants’ contributions to household incomes and the national exchequer, migration is seen as a strategy to improve people and nations’ socio-economic conditions. However, the search for greener pastures abroad has a price as well. Migration brings about significant changes in the lives of those left behind. Especially, changes in the gender division of tasks between women and men may increase women’s workload. Dangerous communicable diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, have been another risk associated with migration.
In a research project on The Role of Transnational Migration for Women and Men in North-West Pakistan, the SDPI takes a closer look at the opportunities and risks provided by migration from rural NWFP to the Gulf States. In order to contribute to better policy-making and greater benefits from migration as well as for migrants, SDPI involves relevant stakeholders and makes its research findings accessible to them.
Research findings
Research Dissemination
Related Links
Please contact Dr. Karin Astrid Siegmann or Maqsood Ahmad Jan for more details regarding SDPI’s program on gender and globalisation.
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