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How migration shapes local networks: Evidence from 145 Senegalese villages

Author

Listed:
  • Beber, Bernd
  • Ebert, Cara
  • Murken, Niklas
  • Riaz, Zara

Abstract

Out-migration is a common feature of rural life in the Global South, yet its effects on social networks in origin communities remain underexplored. Drawing on original data from nearly 10,000 households in 145 villages in Senegal, this paper presents observational evidence linking household migration status to social ties in sending areas. Migrant households maintain significantly more local social connections than non-migrant households, driven by stronger ties among migrants and by inward links to migrant households. This heightened connectivity cannot be explained solely by economic resources; instead, it appears to be shaped by non-material factors such as access to information. These findings do not support the hypothesis of disintegration of rural communities due to migration. However, social networks are a central feature of rural life and by shifting attention from destination- to origin-area networks, the paper broadens the understanding of migration's social impacts.

Suggested Citation

  • Beber, Bernd & Ebert, Cara & Murken, Niklas & Riaz, Zara, 2026. "How migration shapes local networks: Evidence from 145 Senegalese villages," Ruhr Economic Papers 1198, RWI - Leibniz-Institut für Wirtschaftsforschung, Ruhr-University Bochum, TU Dortmund University, University of Duisburg-Essen.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:rwirep:341104
    DOI: 10.4419/96973383
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    References listed on IDEAS

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