Abstract
Migration has always played a significant role in shaping societies and cultures. Migration today plays a crucial role in shaping the global agenda on sustainable development and the quest for decent work opportunities. As the world becomes more interconnected, it is essential for policy-makers to view migration as an opportunity rather than a threat. Migration is not just a national issue, but a global responsibility. By adopting a comprehensive approach that takes into account the link between migration and development, we can harness its potential to expand economic opportunities, reduce poverty, and accelerate the diffusion of new ideas and technologies. Furthermore, youth migration is a critical factor in human capital accumulation for future generations and should be seen as a driving force for social and economic growth. In this chapter, the authors delve into the various factors driving migration, the challenges faced by refugees, and the impact of migration on both the countries of origin and destination.
TopBackground: Migration
Who Migrates?
The question of who migrates is a complex one.It involves individuals from various backgrounds, with different motivations and circumstances that push them to leave their homes and seek a new life elsewhere (Tsegay, 2023). This includes individuals who migrate voluntarily for economic reasons, such as seeking better job opportunities or higher wages (Martin & Straubhaar, 2002). It also includes those who are forced to migrate due to conflicts, persecution, or environmental factors such as natural disasters or climate change. The distinction between voluntary and forced migration is crucial in understanding the diverse experiences and rights of migrants. Additionally, the concept of migrant extends beyond just individuals (Tsegay, 2023). It also includes families, communities, and even entire nations who may migrate for a combination of economic, political, and social reasons.
Key Terms in this Chapter
United Nations (UN): The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945 after World War II. Its main goal is to promote peace, security, and cooperation among member states. Its main goal is to promote peace, security, and cooperation among member states.
Refugee: A refugee is a displaced person who has been forced to leave their country of origin due to various reasons such as persecution, conflict, violence, or other circumstances that require international protection. They are unable or unwilling to return home and seek safety in a different country. They often face challenges and hardships in their journey and are entitled to certain rights and protections under international law, including the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees.
Migration: Migration refers to the movement of people from one place to another with the intention of permanently or temporarily settling in a new location. Migration is the process of individuals or groups moving from one place to another, either within a country or internationally, with the purpose of establishing a new residence or seeking better opportunities, such as economic, social, or political reasons.
International Organization for Migration (IOM): The International Organization for Migration is an intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice relating to migration. It aims to promote orderly and humane migration, as well as the well-being and rights of migrants. The organization works with governments and partners to assist in the resettlement and integration of migrants, offer humanitarian support to those affected by migration crises, facilitate voluntary return and reintegration programs, and provide data and research on migration trends.
Media: Media refers to various forms of communication and the platforms that facilitate the dissemination of information, news, entertainment, and other content to a large audience. It includes traditional forms of media such as television, radio, newspapers, and magazines, as well as digital platforms such as the internet and social media.
Asylum Seeker: An asylum seeker is an individual who has left their home country due to persecution, war, or violence and seeks protection and legal recognition as a refugee in another country. They are in the process of applying for asylum, which involves demonstrating that they meet the criteria for refugee status and proving that they would face serious harm if they were to return to their home country.
Immigrant: An immigrant is an individual who leaves their country of origin to permanently settle in another country. This individual may voluntarily choose to move for various reasons, such as better economic opportunities, education, or escape from political or social hardships in their home country. Additionally, immigrants often go through a legal process to obtain the necessary visas or permits to live and work in their new country.