Gendered dimensions of return migration: a systematic review of the literature

Voluntary return migration is a multifaceted process encompassing the assisted or independent return of migrants to their country of origin, transit, or a third country, based on a voluntary decision of the returnee. Rather than constituting a mere reversal of migration, return reflects a constellation of socio-political, economic, and cultural dynamics that intersect with structural inequalities, including gender, legal status, family position and socio-economic status. This article adopts a mixed-method approach to literature review to provide a critical examination of an under-researched aspect in voluntary return migration studies through a gender-focused lens. Return processes are frequently embedded in gendered expectations operating within returnees’ networks, while reintegration challenges are often mediated by socially ascribed gender roles. Our findings unveil the necessity of developing multi-layered analytical frameworks that treat gender not as a descriptive variable but as a relational regime that shapes return migration experiences.