Successful Dissertation Defense – Leili Yousefi

Congratulations to Leili Yousefi for successfully defending her dissertation on April 8.  Her dissertation is titled: Remittance Practices of Iranian Immigrants in Canada: A Mixed-Methods Study.

Abstract

Many immigrants send money, or remittances, to support family and communities in their home countries. However, Iranian immigrants in Canada face unique challenges due to economic sanctions that prevent them from using formal money transfer services. Despite these barriers, they continue to remit, often using informal, community-based methods. This study explores how and why they do so. Using statistical data and interviews, I find that Iranian migrants remit less often and send smaller amounts than other groups, often choosing alternative destinations. Family remittances are shaped by cultural expectations and gratitude, and even though they often are initiated voluntarily, can create stress and obligation over time. Migrant philanthropy, another form of giving, is more emotionally flexible but still influenced by emotions like guilt. While many Iranian remitters do not explicitly blame structural barriers, these constraints shape their financial decisions. This research highlights the emotional and moral complexities of remittance practices particularly under economic sanctions.

The dissertation is available on MacSphere.