Health and Well-Being in Return Migration: Evidence from Bangladeshi Labour Migrants

Migrants' health outcomes in the post-migration stage have received little attention in academic discussion. The purpose of this study is to investigate post-migration reintegration experiences of Bangladeshi labour migrants returned from the Middle East, with a particular focus on health outcomes and overall wellbeing. Drawing on qualitative research conducted with 14 returned migrants in Faridpur and Sylhet, the study reveals that migrant’s deteriorating health and workplace injuries influence both return migration decisions and post-migration life in Bangladesh. It shows that returnees faced persistent health complications as well as economic hardship which limited their access to healthcare services. Additionally, prolonged health issues and occupational injuries hindered their reintegration into the labour market. The study reveals that family support plays a dual role in the post-migration reintegration process. It finds that strong family ties help returnees cope with economic hardship and mental stress upon return, while weakened family ties leave them without financial assistance, deepening their post-migration difficulties. It also highlights how declining living standards affect the quality of life, ultimately influencing the everyday well-being of returnees. All in all, the study contributes to our understanding of return migration and the consequences of migration-related health issues during the post-migration stage. It calls for inclusive policy interventions to address the health-related challenges faced by returned labour migrants in Bangladesh.