The Impact of Parental Labor Migration on Children Left Behind in Kyrgyzstan

Due to economic pressures in Kyrgyzstan after the break-up of the USSR, there is a 20-year history of parental labor migration from Kyrgyzstan to neighboring countries to support their families. Mostly, these children stay with relatives, but they are also left in residential institutions. Such circumstances directly influence their well-being and development, as they face various challenges in different living arrangements. This research study examines the perceptions of these children and the professionals who care for them. Non-repeated, semi-structured interviews as well as some ethnographic fieldwork, were used to authentically learn about the perspectives of these respondents. This population is more likely to experience attachment issues, resulting in increased rates of educational dropout, vulnerability to violence, and a greater incidence of juvenile delinquency. Results indicate that the age of separation and the type of primary caregiver are germane to the children’s attitudes, but gender and race do not matter. The responses of social workers and social pedagogues were utilized to triangulate data, incorporating supplementary information that children might not have fully disclosed. The final results include policy recommendations for the government to best meet the children’s needs.

Embargo status: Restricted until 06/2025. To request the author grant access, click on the PDF link to the left.