SSR2014: Basic concepts and issues in development LECTURE 8: Migration

Objectives: To discuss migration and its effects on the economy, socio-cultural wellbeing and the environment. To describe the various theories of migration. To discuss the future issues/challenges: Migration & Agricultural production International migration Female migration Brain drain

Migration How do you define migration? What are the different types of migration?

DEFINITION: Migration (human) is the movement of people from one place in the world to another. People can either choose to move ("voluntary migration") or be forced to move ("involuntary migration").

TYPES OF MIGRATION Internal Migration: Moving to a new home within a state, country, or continent. External Migration: Moving to a new home in a different state, country, or continent. Seasonal Migration: The process of moving for a period of time in response to labor or climate conditions.

Effects of migration Economy Increased labour force Issues of remittance (out flow of capital) Statistics: who is more likely to remit money? Low paid workers – why? Female more than males

Socio-cultural effects Mixed ethnic in an area of high concentration (i.e: Chinese in Singapore). Effects of migration to demographic composition to both the country of origins and the destinations E.g. Canada, Thailand, Australia The existence of Chinatown in major European and US cities …or little India, Little Italy etc. Effects on development? Tension vs Harmony? Case of religion related tension in New York due to plans to build a mosque.

Effects on the environment Overurbanization. Constraint on the services available – carrying capacity (housing, health & education services). Overcrowding & homelessness. Competition for jobs and other facilities.

Ravenstein’s Law of Migration Short distance migration. Occur in stages & wave like motion. Increase in volume when industries/ commerce/ transport improves. Adult migrant. Female migrant (within country of birth) & Male migrants (beyond it). Urban dwellers less likely to migrate.

Push and Pull factors of migration (Lee) Poor standard of living Lack of employment opportunities Isolation Landless Lack of resources poverty War & disputes Pull Improved standard of living Accessibility to goods and services inc education Social mobility

Todaro’s suggestion to address migration & employment situation in TWCs Creating an appropriate rural-urban economic balance. Expansion of small-scale, labour intensive industries. Modifying the linkage between education & employment. Reducing population growth. Decentralizing authority to cities and neighbourhoods.

MORPHEUS – Forum activity Topic: Rural-urban migration has lead to a number of adverse effects to the rural areas. Discuss the pros and cons of rural-urban migration in the context of rural development. Justify your answer with relevant example, and policy – if any.