Class, Gender and Migration: Return Flows between Mexico and the United States in Times of Crisis

This book examines the emergence of new migration patterns between Central Mexico and the East Coast of the United States in the last decades of the twentieth century,and return migration during and after the global economic crisis of 2007. It uses a gender-sensitive political economy approach to analyze how neoliberal economic restructuring led to the deterioration of livelihoods and how the interconnections among class and gender affect who stayed and who returned to Mexico during and after the crisis.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of gender-sensitive political economy, shedding light on the emergence of new migration patterns between Central Mexico and the East Coast of the United States in the latter decades of the 20th century. Through a meticulous examination of ethnographic research conducted over a decade, the authors provide a profound understanding of the lives of women and men from two rural communities, revealing the profound impact of neoliberal economic restructuring on their livelihoods.

Beginning in the 1980s, these communities witnessed a decline in economic opportunities, as neoliberal policies eroded the stability of traditional industries and agricultural practices. The authors highlight how similar restructuring processes in the United States opened up avenues for Mexican workers to labor in industries that relied heavily on undocumented labor, contributing to the growth of these sectors. However, when the Great Recession hit in 2007, the context of increasingly restrictive immigration policies led to different outcomes for immigrants. Some individuals were more likely to return to Mexico, driven by the desire to reunite with their families and escape the harsh economic conditions.

This longitudinal study offers a unique perspective on the factors that influenced migration decisions during and after the global economic crisis. By examining the interconnections between class and gender, the authors shed light on who stayed and who returned to Mexico. Through these case studies, the authors offer broader commentary on how neoliberalism has shaped the livelihoods and aspirations of the working classes, highlighting the complex interplay between economic, social, and political factors.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and practitioners in the fields of migration studies, gender studies/politics, international relations, anthropology, development studies, and human geography. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the complex dynamics that shape migration patterns and offers insightful perspectives on the challenges and opportunities faced by immigrants and their communities.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367520984