Migration and Development: Benefits of International Migration for Origin Countries

Migration has been a historical phenomenon that reflects and affects social changes in societies. In recent decades, the growing scale and complexity of international migration have raised concerns among policymakers and planners in developing (or migrant-sending) countries, who face the challenges of human capital loss and development delay in their own countries. This study examines the question of whether these migrations can be seen as a facilitator of development course or as a reducer of human capital in the long run for the countries of origin? 

Methods and Data:

 The present study is a narrative review that analyzes relevant literature from 2000 to 2022 using a descriptive-analytical approach. 

Results show that international migration follows have individual and collective benefits for migrants, their families, and their origin countries. Depending on how the capacities of the migrants are utilized, these migrations may also have negative impacts or challenges for development. In other word, as litrature suggests, international migration does not necessarily reduce human capital, but depending on the way of using its capacities, it can facilitate development for the origin countries. 

The phenomenon of international migration, which reflects the freedom of choice and the common right of individuals and communities to benefit from this option in their lives, requires careful attention from policymakers and planners. Governments should adopt policies that increase the benefits and reduce the risks of migration for their communities. 

Key Message: 

Governments of migration-sending countries should change their attitude towards international migration from a merely threat to a possible opportunity in their population planning and take necessary steps to benefit from the potentials of these immigrants in the direction of their own country's development.