As the world turns: Men left behind due to the international migration in Indonesia

Studies of women's migration have generally focused on two important elements, namely their economic contributions and their experiences as migrant workers (particularly the abuses that occur during migration and employment). Few studies have focused on men, particularly those who are left behind by migrant workers (80 percent of whom are women). This article explores the social processes experienced by men as a consequence of women's mobility and ability to work abroad. It shows that the labour migration of women challenges the patriarchal structures and concepts of their communities and their cultures. As the idea of a "male breadwinner" is eroded, fundamental transformations occur in their status and their social ordering. Through its examination of the male perspective, this article emphasises the need to understand migration as part of a broader social transformation, and that men also require protection as such transformation occurs. © 2020 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.