Family Ties That Bind: How Migration Shapes Financial Support Across Generations
"Uncover the dynamics of internal and international migration and its profound impact on family financial support systems in Senegal."
Migration is more than just moving from one place to another; it’s a complex web of relationships, responsibilities, and financial flows. While international remittances often grab headlines, the reality on the ground is far more nuanced. Even moving within a country can significantly alter how families support each other, especially in places like Senegal, where family bonds are incredibly strong. In Senegal, the family functions as both a safety net and an economic engine. Extended families share resources, with 70% of adults participating in the exchange of support. This is particularly important where access to formal financial institutions is limited, and incomes can be unpredictable.
The flow of money and resources typically moves from those who have migrated to those who remain in the family’s original home. These transfers aren’t just about economics; they’re deeply rooted in social norms of redistribution. The strength of this pressure to share depends on the relationship between the migrant and the non-migrant, as well as the specifics of the migrant’s journey.
What happens to these family support systems when people migrate, and how do different migration patterns and financial transfers play out within the family network? What are the underlying economic and social factors driving these transfers, and what keeps them going across time and distance?
Understanding the Migrant’s Role in the Family
This article focuses on money sent by migrants whether they've moved within Senegal or to another country. In Senegal, migration is common, with around two out of three adults experiencing a significant change in residence during their lives. Despite this movement, people still feel strongly connected to their "original household" – the place where they grew up and where they feel a sense of belonging. This household is where important values, including the norm of sharing resources, are instilled.
- Migration Motivations: Men often migrate for economic and professional opportunities, whereas women frequently move due to marriage.
- Network Support: Family and community networks play a crucial role in providing housing and opportunities for migrants.
- Migration Patterns: Internal migration often involves moves from rural villages to urban centers or Dakar, influenced by housing opportunities.
- Return Migration: Migration is rarely permanent; individuals often move back and forth between different locations, maintaining strong ties to their original household.
Migration's Enduring Legacy
Migration creates a complex web of support that relies on the strength of family ties. These relationships are shaped by social norms and influenced by life stages. To truly understand these dynamics, we need to keep studying these families over time to see how these patterns evolve.