Causes and Solutions of the Brain Drain in Iran

Brain drain is a phenomenon that has become more widespread in recent decades. This issue is gradually becoming a crisis in Iran. Considering the importance of maintaining the elites in the country, this study endeavors to offer solutions to manage this crisis.

In this qualitative study, the opinions of experts on the issue of brain darin were received and analyzed using a crowdsourcing system. Coding method, content analysis and Maxqda10.2 qualitative data analysis software were used to analyse data.

Key results were classified into three main categories: causes of brain drain, its consequences and management strategies. Data analysis lead to extraction of three main categories including: 1) causes of elite migration with two subcategories of repulsive factors of origin and gravity of destination countries;  2) consequences of elite migration with 2 subcategories of elite migration threats and elite migration opportunities; and 3) elite migration strategies with six subcategories of accurate problem recognition, reforming the nurturing system and supporting the elites, establishing and strengthening the system of innovation, reforming the administrative system and meritocracy, promoting the status and dignity of human resources,  fulfilment of the obligationof macro-policymakers.

Elites tend to migrate due to repulsion of the country of origin and multiplicity ofattractions in the destination country. Policymakers in various fields are expected to develop clear programs and laws to manage and eliminate retention of elites and strengthen attractions to prevent the brain drain.