Abstract:
The objective of this paper is to provide information on female internal migration
patterns and trends in Sri Lanka in 1981 and 1994. Popular destinations of f emale migrants, their
streams in 1994, demographic, socio-economic characteristics of female migrants and
determinants and consequences of migration in 1994 are analyzed. Place of birth method was
used. The 1981 Census of Population and Housing and the 1994 Demographic Survey were the
main sources of data. The volume of migration has increased during 1981 to 1994; the
percentage of male lifetime migrants had decreased marginally, while the female lifetime
migrants had increased significantly. Movements of the females are more prominent in the
working age groups and highest in the age range 25-34. Non-migrants are concentrated in the
younger age groups. In all the districts, majority of the female in-migrants and non migrants are
Sinhalese. Labour force participation of the in–migrants is more than that of the non-migrants.
Economically active female migrants are generally low; a majority of them are employed.
Thirteen per cent of the females migrated for employment, mostly in agriculture, manufacturing
and elementary occupations. In spite of the perceived economic advantages, there are adverse
effects experienced by the unmarried females who are employed in the garment industry.
Majority of the female migrants are engaged in household work. Approximately one tenth are
heads of households, majority currently married. The incidence of marriage dissolution is higher
among in-migrants than non-migrants. The proportion who migrated to live in own house or due
to civil disturbances is relatively small. Current female migration patterns in Sri Lanka have
effectuated a significant change in the age structure of the resident population.
