A thesis submitted in patial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Gender and Development Studies

Thesis (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2026

In today{u2019}s Bangladesh, International Labor Migration has become a significant livelihood strategy for many households of both rural and urban contexts. While migration contributes to economic improvement through remittance, it also reshapes household dynamics and gender relations. This study has explored the gendered impacts of international labor migration on the gender norms and socio-economic changes of left-behind women (wives) in migrant families in Bangladesh. In addition to this, a comparative analysis between rural and urban contexts is employed to understand variations in experiences and outcomes.The study adopts a qualitative research approach, using in-depth interviews (IDIs) with 23 wives of migrant workers (12 rural and 11 urban) and key informant interviews (KIIs) with 7 stakeholders, including local government representatives, NGO officials, and experts in migration and gender. Data were analyzed through thematic analysis to identify patterns related to gender norms, decision-making, economic participation, and adaptation strategies.The findings reveal that migration has improved household socio-economic conditions, including increased income, asset accumulation, and investment in children{u2019}s education. In some cases, women gain access to financial resources and participate in household decision making, indicating emerging forms of empowerment. However, these changes remain conditional and uneven. Women often face increased workload, social stigma (2shami bidesh3 labeling), mobility restrictions, and continued patriarchal control, particularly in rural areas. Urban women experience relatively greater flexibility and opportunities, while rural women remain more constrained by joint family structures and traditional norms. The study also highlights various adaptation strategies adopted by women, including reliance on religious practices, engagement in small-scale income-generating activities etc. Despite demonstrating resilience and adaptability, women{u2019}s empowerment remains negotiated rather than absolute.Overall, the study concludes that international labor migration produces mixed outcomes, enhancing socio-economic conditions while simultaneously reinforcing gender inequalities. It emphasizes the need for gender-sensitive migration policies, community awareness, and institutional support to ensure that the benefits of migration translate into meaningful and sustainable empowerment for left-behind women in Bangladesh.