Reintegration Of Indonesian Migrant Workers: Economic And Social Challenges In Post-Migration Contexts

Abstract

This paper examines the economic and policy dimensions of reintegration of Indonesian migrant workers returning from overseas employment. This study employs twofold of data collections including key informant interviews and focus group discussion to returnees of migrant workers. This study explores how returnees navigate post-migration livelihoods, financial precarity, and institutional support. Findings reveal that reintegration is far from linear: most migrants experience unstable income, failed micro-businesses, and limited access to formal credit. Government programs such as Desa Migran Produktif (Desmigratif) and vocational training and grassroots migrant organizations particularly women-led cooperatives play critical roles facilitating reintegration, providing solidarity, mentoring, and financial inclusion. The study concludes that sustainable reintegration requires a shift from welfare-based aid to empowerment-oriented, rights-based programs emphasizing financial literacy, long-term mentoring, and institutional collaboration among government, civil society, and local communities.