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Migration patterns and transnational families in Fiji: comparing two ethnic groups

Voigt-Graf, Carmen (2008) Migration patterns and transnational families in Fiji: comparing two ethnic groups. International Migration, 46 (4). pp. 15-40. ISSN 0020-7985

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Abstract

In the past two decades, international migration patterns out of Fiji have undergone changes with important implications for the formation of transnational families. The focus of this paper is on a comparison between the formation of Indo-Fijian transnational extended families and indigenous Fijian transnational nuclear families. These are discussed within the framework of “transnational corporations of kin. For several decades, Indo-Fijians have permanently migrated to the Pacific Rim as a consequence of the economic and political situation in Fiji. They have resettled in complete nuclear family units and have subsequently attempted to sponsor the migration of their extended family members. Recent years have witnessed an increasing number of indigenous Fijians migrating temporarily for work. In contrast to Indo-Fijians, indigenous Fijian migrate as individuals, leaving their spouses and children behind in Fiji. Women migrate autonomously as caregivers and nurses while men find employment as soldiers and security officers. The main purpose of their mostly temporary migration is to send remittances. However, these economic benefits have to be contrasted with the social and psychological costs associated with the separation of nuclear families. The paper also discusses policy implications arising from the comparative analysis, especially in the light of the current situation in Fiji which is characterised by a lack of policies addressing the implications of migration.

Item Type: Journal Article
Subjects: J Political Science > JV Colonies and colonization. Emigration and immigration. International migration
Divisions: Faculty of Arts, Law and Education (FALE) > School of Social Sciences
Depositing User: Ms Neha Harakh
Date Deposited: 11 Jan 2008 02:10
Last Modified: 19 Jul 2012 02:12
URI: http://repository.usp.ac.fj/id/eprint/103
UNSPECIFIED

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