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Unveiling the Nexus Between Gender Migration and Post-Soviet Nation State Building

Ismael Hayes

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Published in On The Shoulders Of Grandmothers: Gender Migration And Post Soviet Nation State Building

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The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked a profound transformation for the nations that emerged from its dissolution. As these newly independent states embarked on the arduous task of nation state building, migration emerged as a significant phenomenon, with gender playing a pivotal role in shaping its patterns and consequences. This article aims to explore the intricate relationship between gender migration and post-Soviet nation state building, analyzing the motivations, experiences, and outcomes of gendered migration patterns.

On the Shoulders of Grandmothers: Gender, Migration, and Post-Soviet Nation-State Building

by Cinzia D. Solari

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1074 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	270 pages

Motivations for Gender Migration

Gender-specific factors significantly influence the decision to migrate, both for women and men. In post-Soviet societies, economic disparities, political instability, and limited opportunities have driven many to seek better prospects abroad. For women, gender-based discrimination in labor markets, lower wages, and limited access to education and healthcare have motivated migration. They often migrate to find employment in sectors such as domestic work, caregiving, and hospitality, which offer greater opportunities for economic empowerment and improved living conditions.

For men, post-Soviet nation state building has often been accompanied by economic restructuring and industrial decline, leading to job losses and increased competition in the labor market. This has pushed many men to migrate in search of employment in industries such as construction, transportation, and manufacturing, where traditional gender roles assign them greater opportunities.

Experiences of Gendered Migration

The experiences of gendered migration in post-Soviet societies vary widely depending on factors such as destination country, socioeconomic status, and individual circumstances. Female migrants often face challenges related to gender-based discrimination, exploitation, and violence. They may be subjected to lower wages, unsafe working conditions, and limited access to social services. Male migrants, on the other hand, may encounter issues related to cultural expectations and stereotypes, as well as competition in the labor market.

However, migration can also provide opportunities for personal and professional growth for both women and men. Female migrants may gain greater economic independence, improve their skills, and challenge traditional gender roles. Male migrants may find opportunities to establish themselves in new professions and contribute to their families back home through remittances.

Consequences of Gender Migration

Gender migration has significant consequences for post-Soviet nation states. It impacts demographic patterns, labor markets, and social relations. The emigration of large numbers of women can lead to a feminization of poverty in sending countries, as female-headed households struggle to meet their needs. The influx of male migrants in receiving countries can create social tensions and strain public resources, particularly in areas with limited infrastructure and services.

On the positive side, gender migration can contribute to economic development in both sending and receiving countries. Remittances sent by migrants can boost household incomes, support local businesses, and stimulate economic growth. The transfer of skills and knowledge by returning migrants can also contribute to the development of human capital and innovation.

Policy Implications

Addressing the challenges and harnessing the opportunities presented by gender migration requires effective policy interventions. Governments in post-Soviet nations should prioritize gender-sensitive migration policies that promote the protection and empowerment of female migrants. This includes measures to combat discrimination, ensure access to essential services, and provide support for migrant women's integration into host societies.

Receiving countries should adopt policies that facilitate the integration of migrants, regardless of gender. This includes providing access to language training, vocational education, and healthcare services. Governments should also work to address xenophobia and discrimination against migrants to foster social cohesion and harmonious relations between migrants and non-migrants.

Gender migration is an integral part of post-Soviet nation state building, shaping the social, economic, and political landscapes of these societies. Understanding the motivations, experiences, and consequences of gendered migration patterns is crucial for developing effective policies that promote gender equality, protect the rights of migrants, and contribute to sustainable development. By addressing the challenges and leveraging the opportunities presented by gender migration, post-Soviet nations can harness its potential to build more inclusive and prosperous societies.

On the Shoulders of Grandmothers: Gender, Migration, and Post-Soviet Nation-State Building

by Cinzia D. Solari

5 out of 5