THE HEALTH ISSUES AND PROBLEMS FACED BY RETURNEES FROM GULF COUNTRIES IN KERALA

Abstract

While considering employment migration around the world, the role of India cannot be overlooked. Among the states in India, Kerala ranks first in employment migration. Owing to the high literacy rate, migration from Kerala has become a natural phenomenon. Among those migrating to foreign countries in search of better employment and income, migration to the Gulf countries is more convenient and accessible to the general public. Migration does not necessarily have to be in favor of immigrants at all times. They often have to work in adverse conditions and survive in crisis situations. Such adverse situations and crises lead expatriates to ill health. This study seeks to analyse the health of expatriates who have returned to Kerala after a long stay in the Gulf. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, a comparative study was conducted to assess health conditions between return migrants and non-migrants in the homeland. The study found that expatriates who had spent more years abroad were more likely to have health problems compared to non-migrants.

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Received: 18 Mar 2021
Revised: 5 May 2021
Accepted: 6 Jun 2021
Published: 20 Jun 2021