What should I do about my husband’s refusal for us to return and live with him, on the pretext that he wishes to remain with his mother, especially since I fear for our children due to the widespread immorality in our surroundings?

Scholars have stated that a husband may travel and be absent from his wife for a period not exceeding six months, unless he has her permission. This is based on what was narrated from Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) regarding his setting a time limit for people in their military expeditions. Exceptions to this include obligatory travel, such as Hajj, and travel to seek livelihood. Accordingly, if the husband has means of livelihood in his country, he is not permitted to travel for more than six months unless he has his wife's permission or takes her with him. If the wife is harmed by his refusal, she may request a divorce. As for the wife staying with her husband's mother and serving her, she is not obligated to do so Islamically, especially if the husband's mother has daughters who can serve her; if she does so, she will be rewarded. The husband must not neglect his family, as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "It is sufficient sin for a man to neglect those whom he is responsible to support."