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Entrepreneurial Coaching and Migration Intentions: Evidence from a Randomized Controlled Trial in Senegal

Author

Listed:
  • Michel Beine
  • Arnaud Bourgain
  • Elisabeth Kempter
  • Melissa Tornari

Abstract

This paper investigates the impact of a one-week entrepreneurial coaching program on overall and irregular migration intentions among young adults in the Dakar metropolitan area, Senegal. Using a randomized controlled trial implemented in partnership with an entrepreneurship training center in Dakar, we estimate treatment effects by comparing baseline and follow-up outcomes and address partial compliance using instrumental-variable methods. We find that participation in entrepreneurial coaching reduces emigration intentions by 12–20%, with effects concentrated among individuals connected to the labor market. The program indirectly reduces intended irregular migration by encouraging some individuals to remain in Senegal. We do not find that participation affected the migration mode of those who still intend to migrate. Overall, our findings provide experimental evidence from Senegal that entrepreneurship-based active labor market policies can shape migration aspirations by strengthening local economic attachment among working youth.

Suggested Citation

  • Michel Beine & Arnaud Bourgain & Elisabeth Kempter & Melissa Tornari, 2026. "Entrepreneurial Coaching and Migration Intentions: Evidence from a Randomized Controlled Trial in Senegal," CESifo Working Paper Series 12486, CESifo.
    • Handle: RePEc:ces:ceswps:_12486
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Bah, Tijan L. & Batista, Catia & Gubert, Flore & McKenzie, David, 2023. "Can information and alternatives to irregular migration reduce “backway” migration from The Gambia?," Journal of Development Economics, Elsevier, vol. 165(C).
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • O15 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Economic Development: Human Resources; Human Development; Income Distribution; Migration
    • O55 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Africa
    • F22 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - International Migration

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