Women on the Move in Europe and Central Asia

A comparative analysis of mixed migration dynamics, structural constraints, and pathways to strengthen gender-responsive governance

Commissioned by the UN Women Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, this comprehensive study provides policy-relevant evidence on the gender dimensions of mixed migration across the region. As a region of origin, transit, and destination, Europe and Central Asia faces rapidly evolving migration dynamics driven by economic disparities, conflict, demographic change, and environmental pressures.

Migration Pathways and Structural Constraints

Women constitute slightly more than half of all migrants in the region. However, their trajectories and outcomes are heavily dictated by structural inequalities, restrictive gender norms, and legal frameworks. The study examines diverse migration pathways, including labour mobility and irregular migration, forced displacement, and climate-related mobility.

While migration often exposes women to labour market segmentation, unpaid care responsibilities, and heightened risks of exploitation and gender-based violence, it can also create critical pathways for economic empowerment, expanded capabilities, and positive shifts in gender norms.

Intersectional Methodology and Key Findings

Grounded in a gender-sensitive and intersectional framework, the research analyzes the full migration cycle—from departure to transit, arrival, and return. Combining quantitative data, policy reviews, and qualitative stakeholder insights, the findings highlight several critical gaps:

• Persistent disconnects between policy commitments and on-the-ground implementation.
• Severe limitations in the availability of sex-disaggregated and intersectional data.
• Uneven integration of gender considerations in national and regional migration governance.

Advancing Gender-Responsive Governance

By identifying structural barriers and policy gaps, this study aims to inform gender-responsive migration governance, strengthen strategic partnerships, and advance the rights, protection, and empowerment of migrant women across Europe and Central Asia. To support evidence-based policymaking, the core research report is accompanied by an advocacy brief and five subregional profiles, which summarize key findings and priority issues.