Forced Return of Female Migrant Workers from the Gulf Countries to Their Countries of Origin

Abstract

Female migration for domestic work is a growing trend in migrant-sending countries, primarily in Asia and Africa. Countries located in the Persian Gulf are the leading destination for these workers, who hope to change their lives and their families’ welfare in their native countries. However, female migrant workers in the Gulf countries have always faced difficulties and challenges at their workplaces. Their experiences abroad often make headlines when their employers physically and sexually assault them. They are routinely left unfed for days and frequently deprived of decent salaries. These unfavorable workplace conditions can force them to return home before ending their working contract. This forceful return of these migrant workers creates another phase of turbulence and challenges in their home societies, where they have to undergo various upheavals. Considering this a global social problem, this chapter focuses on the contemporary trends of female migration to the Gulf countries and the causes of their unanticipated and forceful return. It also focuses on the social, economic, and psychological consequences of this forceful return for returnee women and their origin societies. The chapter argues that there should be a standard, policy-level framework between the countries that send and receive migrant workers to protect their rights and make sure they have good working conditions. Finally, the chapter outlines some policy implications to reduce the plight of female migrant workers in the Gulf region.