The double return experience: rationale for return from Canada to Ghana and Ghana to Canada

Abstract

ABSTRACT What motivates Ghanaian migrants who return from Canada, with the intention to settle permanently in Ghana, to move back to Canada? This study answers this question by exploring the lived experiences of Ghanaian migrants involved in double return migration. Using semi-structured interviews with Ghanaian migrants residing in the Greater Toronto Area, the paper demonstrates the complexity of a double return (return to Ghana and second return to Canada). First, participants identified patriotism, attachment to their homeland, opportunity to contribute to the socio-economic development of their homeland, and employment challenges in Canada as reasons for returning home. Second, participants explained that poor business environment, children’s integration challenges, and social networks and familial ties in the receiving society informed their decision to return to Canada. The results demonstrate a need for sustainable reintegration policies in the receiving and sending societies to enable migrants and returnees to successfully integrate in both contexts.