In 2023, 16 percent of adults, more than 900 million people, said they wanted to emigrate if they could. This was the result of a study published on Thursday (local time) by the Gallup polling institute based in Washington in the USA.
Accordingly, the numbers have risen continuously in almost all regions of the world since 2011. African states south of the Sahara recorded particularly high values. While in 2011 29 percent of those surveyed wanted to emigrate, this figure has now increased to 37 percent. With a good three out of four adults (76 percent), the desire was highest in Liberia in West Africa. At 75 percent, its direct neighbor Sierra Leone was just behind.
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In Latin America and the Caribbean the number has also risen by ten percent to 28 percent within twelve years. In first place is the island state of Honduras, where every second person expressed the wish. Ecuador is in second place (49 percent).
The values for Europe remain the same, where one in five wanted to migrate in both 2011 and 2023. In the successor states of the former Soviet Union, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the value has fallen from 15 to 13 percent.
The USA remains the most popular destination. However, popularity fell from 22 to 18 percent. This also applies to the United Kingdom. Four percent of those surveyed stated this as a goal, whereas twelve years earlier it was seven percent.
**Interview with Dr. Emily Santos, Migration Expert and Author of “The Global Movement: Trends and Impacts”**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Santos. The latest World Migration Report has shown an astounding increase in international migration, with 16 percent of adults globally expressing a desire to emigrate. What do you think are the primary factors driving this trend?
**Dr. Santos**: Thank you for having me. There are several factors at play. Economic opportunities remain a significant driver, especially in countries with high unemployment rates. People seek better job prospects and living conditions. Additionally, political instability and climate change are forcing individuals to consider relocation as a means of survival.
**Editor**: The report mentions a 650 percent increase in certain aspects of migration. What specific trends or statistics stood out to you?
**Dr. Santos**: One striking statistic is the rise in migration among younger populations, particularly those under 30. This demographic is not only more mobile but also more globally connected through technology. Furthermore, there is an increase in migration for education purposes, which ties into the greater demand for skilled workers worldwide.
**Editor**: Given these statistics, what implications can we expect for both the countries migrants leave and the ones they move to?
**Dr. Santos**: For countries of origin, this often leads to a brain drain, where talented individuals leave for better opportunities, potentially stalling local development. On the flip side, destination countries benefit from the influx of human capital, which can spur economic growth. However, it also necessitates effective integration policies to ensure social cohesion and support for both migrants and local communities.
**Editor**: The report touches on the challenges of human mobility as well. Can you elaborate on what some of these challenges might be?
**Dr. Santos**: Certainly. Migrants often face systemic barriers such as inadequate legal protection, discrimination, and difficulties accessing healthcare and education in their new countries. Additionally, returning migrants can struggle to reintegrate into their home societies after years abroad. These challenges require comprehensive policy solutions and international cooperation to address effectively.
**Editor**: What do you think is the most important takeaway from the 2024 World Migration Report for governments and policymakers?
**Dr. Santos**: The key takeaway is that migration is a multifaceted phenomenon that needs to be embraced as part of global development strategies. Policymakers should focus on creating inclusive frameworks that recognize the contributions of migrants while also addressing the challenges they face. It’s crucial to foster a narrative that highlights the benefits of migration, rather than solely viewing it through the lens of crisis.
**Editor**: Thank you, Dr. Santos, for your insights on this critical issue.
**Dr. Santos**: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important topic.
