Transnational family life

Reasons for working away from family in Austria of parents raising minor children in Hungary

Abstract

This study examines the causes of work in Austria of parents with minor children involving separation from the family in Hungary and of maintain a transnational lifestyle, based on the results of interviews conducted among parents (n=25) of minor children living in Austria and commuting long-distance to Austria. Interviews show that in families living a transnational life, parents’ work abroad is motivated almost exclusively by hopelessness and coercion due to financial/livelihood problems. The main push factor inducing people to leave the country is the low salary in Hungary, which translates into financial and livelihood problems at household/family level, and in many cases is associated with the accumulation of credit debts and other debts. Depending on life situations and opportunities, the financial and livelihood causes behind the decision are complemented by other micro- and macro-level elements, such as the unfavorable situation resulting from the selectivity of family support practices in Hungary, the disadvantage identified due to the tax conditions of small entrepreneurs in Hungary, or family/couple problems. On the other side, the pull factors are higher salaries and other fringe benefits, tax allowances and support for children, better working conditions, attractive consumption opportunities and a calmer, more pleasant atmosphere. However, these benefits are overshadowed by the psychological costs of absence of family members and negative experiences of discrimination.