New book on Migrant Workers' Narratives of Return: Alienation and Identity Transformations

This new book by our Professor Hans Ladegaard, published by Routledge, explores Indonesian and Filipina (domestic) migrant workers’ experiences of homecoming after years of work abroad, separated from their loved ones.

Through 113 narratives, Prof. Ladegaard highlights the struggles faced by these workers in the diaspora, including abuse and exploitation leading to trauma. The book also delves into the challenges of coming home, with workers needing to reinvent themselves and navigate the difficulties of not 'fitting in.' Chapters reveal a major difference between the experiences of Filipina and Indonesian migrant workers, with Filipina returnees sharing mostly positive stories while Indonesian returnees uncover mostly negative stories.

The book is not just an exploration of personal experiences but also sheds light on how research on disenfranchised groups like migrant workers can be used for social and political action.

More information about the book can be found on the website HERE.