The Other Borders. Changes in Gender and Ethnic Relations during Migration across the US-Mexico Border.

Migration is a topic which has gained support and legitimacy in the agenda of international development and one that has been studied from different angles. The economic impact of remittances and migrant workforce in particular has received a lot of attention. However there are some aspects which have close connections to economic and political aspects of migration that have not been studied in depth. One of those aspects refers to the impact that migration has on gender relations which in many cases crosscuts with ethnicity. There is ample evidence that proves that gender and ethnic inequality hinders development and how better opportunities for women have a positive impact on development outcomes. This paper attempts to look at the positive changes in gender and ethnic relations and its impact on development outcomes. Many studies have focused on the difficulties experienced by migrant workers and the violations to their human rights. However this paper gives a different glance to the phenomena. It argues that migration across the borders can have positive changes in gender and ethnic relations which in turn have positive effect on rights, resources and voice with it respective positive impact on economic performance and good governance. Thus this paper looks at those gender and ethnic relations (and changes) that allow or limit capabilities and functionings during migration in Mexico and the States. ..PAT.-Unpublished Manuscript [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]