Federal sources in Guatemala report that approximately  2.7 million Guatemalans currently live abroad, most of them in the U.S.A. The profile of Guatemalans that immigrate is predominantly men and young people. The reasons for making such a difficult decision as to leave their families and country behind and embark on a risky and costly journey are similar to those of other countries: poverty, and lack of jobs and opportunities. Nevertheless, an astounding 39.2% of Guatemalans admit having the intention of migrating. 

Although remittances from Guatemalans in the U.S. play a relevant role in the country’s economy (10.500 million dollars in 2019), the consequences of these migration patterns have a deep impact on family structures; bringing insecurity, uncertainty and helplessness to those left behind, often women and children. On the other hand, it can also represent an opportunity for women’s empowerment both in the household and at a community level and can be part of an adaptation strategy.

Barefoot College International has been trying to mitigate this situation by creating opportunities onsite so that people don’t feel the need to part from their communities in the hopes to find better fortune and at the same time empowering rural women, solutions for a more sustainable development where rural livelihoods are not at risk.