The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of remittances from international migration on the occupational choice and working hours of left-behind youth in Kyrgyzstan. Using second-wave data from the "Life in Kyrgyz Republic" survey, this team of local researchers – selected for support under the PAGE initiative in 2014 – find evidence that, in order to replace the labor of the migrant member, young people facing difficulties in finding jobs are more inclined to contribute to the household through daily chores or agricultural work, but also that this “occupational choice" is mainly influenced by gender differences and education level. Moreover, the study highlights that, although remittances do not promote unemployment nor generate dependency amongst left-behind, they are primarily used to finance current consumption expenditures rather than business or entrepreneurial activities. Based on these findings, the team outlines a series of recommendations for policies to focus on promoting the productive use of remittances and education for the youth in the Kyrgyz Republic. Find out more about the research methods, findings and ensued policy recommendations through the following PEP publications:
