International Female Migration: Gender, Wage Labour, and Development

Abstract

In this paper I examine the engendering of migration and the problems of applying male models of migration to the female experience. I also address the current issues regarding female labour migration to Canada. This includes a discussion of why women are migrating, what types of jobs are available to them and the importance of migrant labour to the employment sector. Problematic to the situation of the female migrant are the personal problems incurred with their leaving their traditional role in the sending country. I conclude by suggesting that migration is a strategy employed by women to improve their situation, and that of their families. By migrating, these women are given the opportunity to step away from their prescribed role at home. During this liminal stage, while away from home and not yet fully integrated into the host society, migrant women are given the rare opportunity to define themselves on their own terms.