Did International Migration Change Women’s Lives? Examining the Empowerment Status of Sri Lankan Women Migrants

This study examines the empowerment gained by Sri Lankan women migrants who worked in the Middle East and settled in their communities after considerable periods of employment. It provides novel insights into their empowerment status across economic, social, and political components. The diverse sample of 53 women in the Badulla District of Sri Lanka, obtained using a judgment sampling method that represents various economic sectors, religions, and age groups, contributes valuable findings to the existing literature. In terms of economic empowerment, the findings highlight achievements in acquiring assets and reaching short-term goals. However, concerns arise about the sustainability of their economic status since a significant majority are currently not engaged in any economic activities, and there is little indication of investment in entrepreneurial initiatives. As for social empowerment, noteworthy progress is observed, particularly in their adeptness at handling social incidents, decision-making within the family, and their independence in various aspects of daily life and social relationships. Additionally, the study sheds light on their political empowerment, evident through their positive outlook on independent vote-casting. The findings emphasize the multifaceted nature of empowerment experienced by women migrants, calling for continuous support and nurturing of their growth in various domains of life through progressive policy formulations.