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The multi-level determinants of international migration aspirations in 25 communities in Africa, Asia and the Middle East

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  • Hagen-Zanker, Jessica
  • Carling, Jørgen
  • Caso, Nicolás
  • Rubio, Marcela G.

Abstract

In this article we ask which societal circumstances and individual characteristics make people wish to migrate to another country. Drawing on a large-scale survey conducted in 25 communities in ten countries across Asia, Africa and the Middle East, we conduct multi-level regression analysis, allowing us to assess the effects of diverse individual and community-level determinants on international migration aspirations. This multi-level design has delivered two insights in particular. First, determinants at the individual and community level both contribute to forming migration aspirations. Second, the analysis at the community level shows that individual-level factors are far from consistent in determining who has migration aspirations and who does not. We conclude that such multi-level analysis holds much potential for generating greater understanding of how migration processes work.

Suggested Citation

  • Hagen-Zanker, Jessica & Carling, Jørgen & Caso, Nicolás & Rubio, Marcela G., 2025. "The multi-level determinants of international migration aspirations in 25 communities in Africa, Asia and the Middle East," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 185(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:wdevel:v:185:y:2025:i:c:s0305750x24002444
    DOI: 10.1016/j.worlddev.2024.106774
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Migration; Migration aspirations; Migration drivers;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D90 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - General
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • F22 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - International Migration
    • R23 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Household Analysis - - - Regional Migration; Regional Labor Markets; Population

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