Labor Circulation and Changes among Seafarers' Families and Communities in Kiribati

Abstract

This paper critically examines the social and cultural elements involved in seafaring and explores how a seafaring lifestyle has affected aspects of the te katei ni Kiribati, the “I-Kiribati way of life.” The decision to undertake contract labor requiring a work life apart from families is one way to maximizing socio-economic benefits, where the hardship of being away from home over extended periods is endured in order to maintain and benefit families at home. This paper explores how seafarers are perceived in Kiribati's communities, and how different aspects of their employment alternating with vacation at home are affecting family relationships and the I-Kiribati culture.