Information Asymmetry and Gender Inequality among Indonesian Female Migrant Workers (IFMW) in East Java Province

Abstract

Migration is a complex decision and involves many goals and expectations that may conflict with each other. The challenge often faced by migrants in migrating is the information received, which can be used as a basis for making decisions. This information asymmetry can trigger the opportunity cost that must be accepted which may be heavier than the predetermined goal. Migrants perceive that migration to rich countries can improve their economy. But from the perspective of happiness, migration motivated by the prospect of economic gain alone tends to trigger problems. This study aims to determine the impact of Information Asymmetry on gender disparity among IMFW in East Java Province while working overseas and to develop a restricted rationality model for IMFW overseas migration decisionmaking. This research's empirical phenomenological paradigm has been implemented using qualitative research methods. To examine information, triangulation is employed. The raw data were gathered via in-depth interviews with former migrant workers. Government authorities then verify the information. The information is then analysed to develop a model. The irrational behaviour of migrant workers is caused by the limited resources they have and the involvement of social institutions. The study results reveal that international migration decision-making for women in Jember Regency is considered a limited rationale, influenced by the availability of information, motivation and the idea of chain migration. On the other hand, simple heuristics on PMW in decision-making tend to direct their decisions to information that has been proven to be true based on personal experience or the experiences of others. Information asymmetry triggers gender inequality in Indonesian female Migrant Workers (IFMW).