Return, Reintegration, and Local Development

Abstract

Return and reintegration have become essential components of the life of Indonesian migrant workers. Following their return, their journey persists and they may face numerous obstacles, especially in creating a sustainable reintegration by attaining financial independence, social stability, and psychological wellness. <br /> The objective of this study is to examine the extent to which Indonesian migrant workers who have returned to their home country are able to reintegrate successfully and make a positive impact on local development through sustainable means. The objective of this policy-oriented research is to have more comprehensive reintegration assistance for returned migrant workers, to achieve sustainable reintegration for better local development, particularly through the implementation of Migrant Care Villages (Desbumi) and Productive Migrant Villages (Desmigratif). This research employs a qualitative approach and collects empirical data from three regions: Wonosobo, Jember, and Central Lombok. The data is gathered through interviews, observations, focus group discussions, and related publications. <br /> The findings illustrate that migrant workers demonstrate various motivations and situations that drive their decision to return to their native village. Most reasons for returning are due to overlapping circumstances influencing their return preparedness. The reintegration support provided to returned migrant workers in Indonesia should be restructured to incorporate a comprehensive approach encompassing several levels (individual, community, and structural) and considering economic, social, and psychosocial factors to foster long-term and sustainable reintegration. <br /> Group cases in research regions show that the sustainable reintegration strategy might give returnees more opportunities and options to contribute to local development. This study argued that it was essential for the relevant multi-stakeholders to collaborate to empower the returnees, facilitate their sustainable reintegration, and offer them various choices and possibilities to contribute to local development actively.