A study has identified communication issues and physical distance between labor mobility workers and their partners as significant factors contributing to marital breakdowns. This research focuses on the social consequences of the Pacific labor mobility scheme for Fijians and workers from three other Pacific Island nations.
Participants in the study noted the scheme’s detrimental effects on marital relationships. The report points out that when relationships falter, older children and youths often take on caregiving responsibilities within families.
When marital conflicts arise, particularly after a male partner takes work abroad, the lack of support from the paternal extended family often leaves children to care for younger siblings. Single mothers then face the challenge of working long hours to provide for their families. In these situations, maternal families frequently emerge as crucial support systems, with some women relocating closer to their maternal relatives to better manage childcare.
Infidelity was also highlighted as a factor in these relationship breakdowns. One man recounted a situation involving his wife, who, while working overseas, caused a rift in their relationship after an incident during a video call revealed her pregnancy. He expressed his willingness to support their children despite the circumstances.
The research suggests that marital issues often lead to complex caregiving dynamics and disputes, affecting the distribution of remittances and causing further financial challenges. Relationship strain typically affects children’s experiences with the labor mobility program, impacting their economic security and care arrangements.
The study also notes potential complications within family law disputes, including delays in communication regarding court decisions and a disconnect between police and immigration departments. As a result, the systems meant to support these families may fail to hold labor mobility program participants accountable for the well-being of their children.