Migration and School Performance of Children Who Stay Behind in Moldova and Georgia
Dr. Victor Cebotari,
There has been little comparative empirical research on educational outcomes of children living transnational lives in the former Soviet Union countries. This study uses nationally representative survey data collected in 2011-2012 from children aged 11-19 and their caregivers, to examine the school performance of children who stay behind in Moldova (N = 1,974) and Georgia (N = 1, 609). Results show a significant increase in school performance for children in returned migrant households, when both parents are abroad, when the child is in the care of a grandparent and when remittances are prioritized for education. Decrease in school performance is associated with West-ward migration of household members, the absence of the father, and the lack of remittances from migrants abroad. There is no evidence for a direct maternal migration effect on school performance contrary to the rhetoric often used in the context of migration, especially in Moldova. The findings highlight the importance of considering different transnational characteristics and the sensitivity to assessments made by caregivers and children themselves.
Venue: Board Room
Date: 17 September 2014
Time: 12:30 - 13:30 CET
