Relatively little is known about the magnitude, causes and consequences of migration in South Asia or the social and behavioural mechanisms underlying the relationship between migration and HIV-related vulnerabilities.

To fill this gap and develop appropriate responses, a regional operation research programme was established with interventions and research at source, transit and destination locations. Led by CARE UK, Enhancing Mobile Populations’ Access to HIV & AIDS Services Information and Support (EMPHASIS) is a five-year project working with local partners and CARE country offices in India, Nepal and Bangladesh to carry out research and interventions. ODI provides technical oversight to the research component.

Drawing upon both quantitative and qualitative methods, this Background Note seeks to understand what drives mobility, access to services for migrants at source and destination, and the risks and vulnerabilities associated with migration and HIV and AIDS. Given the interest in exploring vulnerabilities related to migration and HIV along a continuum from source, through transit to destination, this Background Note presents findings from Nepali and Bangladeshi migrants as they move through this continuum.