Percepção das mulheres em uma comunidade indígena no equador frente aos efeitos econômicos e emocionais da migração de familiares

Abstract

International migration has become a recurring subsistence strategy for many families, generating significant transformations both in the economic organization of households and in the emotional dynamics of those who remain in the community. The general objective of this research is to analyze women’s perceptions of the economic and emotional effects resulting from the migration of their family members. The specific objectives are: to analyze women’s perceptions of family economic dynamics in the context of family migration and the inflow of remittances; and to describe the emotional effects of migration from the women’s perspective. The research adopts a qualitative approach of a descriptive and analytical nature. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted with a sample of 20 women whose family members migrated abroad. This study was carried out in a rural community in Ecuador, whose identity is not disclosed for ethical reasons. The information obtained was processed through categorical thematic analysis with the support of ATLAS.ti software. The economic results indicate that remittances mainly function as a survival fund used to cover basic needs such as food and education, rather than as capital for productive investment. A critical cycle of initial indebtedness was also identified, as many families must repay loans taken out to finance the migration process, which absorbs a large portion of remittances and delays improvements in family well-being. In addition, the results reveal the abandonment of local agricultural activities and the progressive aging of the rural workforce. At the emotional level, the findings reveal the persistence of migratory grief, often manifested through physical symptoms. Women also face a significant physical and emotional burden as they simultaneously assume the roles of both “father and mother,” managing the household under constant uncertainty regarding the well-being of the migrant. The results indicate that monetary inflows do not compensate for the suffering resulting from the rupture of family bonds. The findings also contributed new analytical properties. In the economic dimension, these include the failure of the migratory project, health-related expenditures, and the persistence of family indebtedness. In the emotional dimension, a constant concern about the risks faced by migrants emerged. By making these silent transformations in rural communities visible, this study contributes to understanding the multidimensional impacts of migration and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 3, 5, 8, and 10, which address the eradication of poverty, health and well-being, gender equality, decent work and economic growth, and the reduction of inequalities, respectively.