ABSTRACT
The migration of women—especially to large cities—is both reflection of ongoing social change and an indication of changes to come. The proportion of women in urban ward migration streams is increasing, and women migrants to major urban areas outnumber men in many Asian countries. Two aspects of development appear to have a profound effect on the migration of women to cities in Asia. One is the increasing level of female education. The other is the strategy of industrialization adopted in several East and Southeast Asian countries. The participation of client groups—the general public—in planning and decision-making is important in the design of responsive urban services. A woman's multiple roles as mother, housekeeper, and income earner have implications for urban planning. Social and family networks can be important influences on migration decision and migrant's adjustment to life in the place of destination. The chapter summarizes the main policy, planning, and research issues related to female migration and women in the cities.
