What is the role of migration in changing gender norms, and how is it hindering or helping gender equality? This collection of essays aims to help us understand the experience of migration on livelihoods, and the way in which migration is affecting gender relations and equity.

The last decades have seen a gradual “feminization” of migration. An increasing number of women now migrate on their own, with families depending on them. This is partly due to the kinds of work available to migrants, mainly light manufacturing and domestic work. The essays focus largely on migration as a livelihood strategy, with the exception of two essays, which explore forced migration due to conflict or natural disaster. The rest of the essays examine the following themes:

• Migrants, households, and social networks
• Migrants, domestic labour, and care work
• Remittances and their role in development and gender equality

These essays provide useful knowledge that can help conceptualize and implement interventions and policy to support those affected by migration. Additionally, the gender-based approach of these essays highlights the failures in programming and policy in regards to gender, which need addressing in order to provide more inclusive support. In particular, the essays advocate for national and grassroots development strategies that can maximise the gains to women, men and children living in poverty. These can ensure there are fewer ‘push’ factors in decisions to migrate.