Working Abroad, Fractures at Home: A Study of Divorce Among Families of Former Migrant Workers

Amirul Haqi; Muhammad Kurniawan Budi Wibowo; Muhammad Yunan Hidayat

doi:10.31943/afkarjournal.v9i3.3333

Authors

Amirul Haqi Institut Islam Mamba’ul ‘Ulum Surkarata
Muhammad Kurniawan Budi Wibowo Institut Islam Mamba’ul ‘Ulum Surkarata
Muhammad Yunan Hidayat Institut Islam Mamba’ul ‘Ulum Surkarata

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31943/afkarjournal.v9i3.3333

Keywords:

Divorce, Former Migrant Workers, Family Resilience, Social Factors, Economic Factors, Psychological Factors

Abstract

This study examines the phenomenon of divorce among former Indonesian migrant worker families by situating the discussion within migration studies, family sociology, and family law perspectives. The research aims to identify the main factors influencing divorce among ex-migrant worker households and to analyze the role of social and psychological support in reducing the risk of marital breakdown. This study employs a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were collected through purposive sampling involving five former migrant workers who experienced divorce and one religious court judge, using in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation. The data were analyzed thematically to capture both lived experiences and institutional perspectives. The findings reveal that divorce among ex-migrant families is primarily influenced by disrupted communication due to long-distance relationships, unresolved economic problems, declining marital commitment, behavioral changes after migration, the presence of third parties, and negative peer influence such as gambling. These conditions indicate that migration may weaken family resilience when communication, trust, and responsibility are not properly maintained. The contribution of this study lies in providing an in-depth qualitative understanding of post-migration marital dynamics and highlighting the importance of social and psychological support systems in strengthening family resilience among migrant worker households. The findings also offer practical implications for developing preventive programs such as pre-departure counseling, post-return family assistance, and community-based support mechanisms involving religious courts, local governments, and community institutions.

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