In making this observation, I certainly do not imply that all migrant women inevitably become single mothers, rather, I suggest there is a discernible pattern noticeable in both countries, but with distinctly different causes. There is therefore a greater likelihood of Ethiopian women forming relationships and having children. The Lebanese Government’s restrictions on MDWs’ rights to legally marry and have children has the unintended counter-effect of propelling these women and their children into irregular status and precarious single motherhood.