Notion of Belonging in the Nation-State: Gendered Construction of International Migration Aspirations among University Students in Bangladesh

Abstract

Migration is not a new phenomenon, yet migration aspirations need to be studied carefully. This research looks into the gendered constructions of migration aspirations among university students. Bangladesh as a nation-state plays a pivotal role to construct gender specific migration propensities. Prevailing gender relations influence migration dynamics at macro, meso and micro-level. Consequently, girls have often different reasons for migration aspirations than their counterparts. This study finds that young men aspire to go abroad for better employment opportunities and standard livelihood, while young women tend to do so for personal security and secured life. Mostly, informants are found dissatisfied and frustrated about the state and fellow citizens.