Migrant Remittances in South Asia: An Introduction

Abstract

Making decision in order to set off for international destinations is hardly independent of potential economic benefit that spawns in the form of remittances. The primary motivations for migration from developing coun- tries are generally linked to economic opportunities overseas and sharing part of this newly acquired economic opportunity with family members remained behind (Skeldon, 1997; Faist, 2000; Oda, 2004; Piper 2007; de Haas, 2010b; Ullah, 2010; Adams et al., 2012; Rajan, 2012; Sirkeci et al, 2012). Remittance — one of the direct outcomes of international migration - is the most beneficial private transactions in the global economy. This often stems from relatively developed economies and goes to the migrant households located in the developing economies. The South Asian region draws nearly one-fourth of global remittance volume that contributes on average to over 10 per cent of GDP of South Asian countries. This remark- able amount and its potential for development to South Asia justify this volume. By focusing on the manners and means by which the South Asian migrant communities remit back to their countries and the implications of remittances for recipient families and communities, the chapters of this volume seek to contribute to expanding scholarship in the field of remittance.

The flows of money, knowledge and universal ideas — called remittances — can have a positive effect on what is called devel- opment in the countries of emigration.

— Thomas Faist (2008: 21)