Mapping the Return Migration Research Field

Abstract

This working paper presents an overview of recent literature on the theme of return migration, with particularly emphasis on works of relevance to our understanding of this topic in a contemporary Portuguese migration context. The discussion integrates insights and perspectives from empirically-informed studies with more long-standing theoretical ideas relating to return migration utilizing the idea of ‘generation’. Added to this is emphasis upon the role of social ties in understanding return migration, in particular family relationships, as well as an appreciation of the mythological dimension of the drivers behind return population flows. Also highlighted is a lack of consideration of structural factors in studies, most prominently socio-economic change, a factor which has special significance for present day return migrants in the Portuguese context.