oa Family, Migration and Dignity: An Introduction

More than 214 million people live outside their countries of origin or citizenship today. Among these, 105 million men and women are economically active , contributing to development, economic progress and social welfare in origin and destination countries alike. It is estimated that a similar number comprise children and other dependents accompanying working migrants. However, many migrant workers have to leave husbands or wives and children “back home” in order to work abroad to provide for their families. In some cases, both parents go abroad to work because there are no possibilities for decent work at home, leaving care of children in the hands of others.

The circumstances of migration today pose multiple challenges to family as the core cultural, social, and economic unit in society, and to preparing the next generations for the world of work.