Understanding the intricacies of gender and migration can result in programs and policies that enhance
the benefits and decrease the economic and social costs for female migrants, who make up half of the
global migrant population. The report provides a comprehensive assessment of gender and migration
literature, finding that migration can improve the autonomy, human capital, and self-esteem of women,
as well as women’s authority and worth in their families and communities. Migration can advance more
equitable social norms and improve women’srights and access to resources. Although migration islargely
beneficial, there are many constraints that limit its gains, such as restrictive social norms or laws, gender
and racial discrimination, and gender-specific vulnerabilities. The report concludes by recommending that
migrant women’s human rights be protected, and that migrants be provided access to services and
resources such as health, legal, and financial services. The report also recommends that governments
ratify international treaties and conventions promoting rights and protectionsfor migrant women, as well
as promote nondiscrimination and women’s access to labor markets.