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Policy Article

Expectations matter: Boosting local economies to cut migration from developing countries

Authors

  • Schneiderheinze
  • C.
  • Tohoff
  • L.

Publication Date

Key Words

Development

Economic Expectations

Economic Growth

Related Topics

Emerging Markets & Developing Countries

Africa

Key messages:

  • If people expect their local economy to improve, they are less likely to migrate—even given low-income levels.
  • Expectations are more important for the emigration decision than income levels. They also respond better to policy interventions in the short to medium term.
  • At the same time, slow-moving factors such as educational advancement, demographic change, and structural economic transformation can still increase migration in the long term.

Kiel Institute Expert

  • Claas Schneiderheinze
    Kiel Institute Researcher

More Publications

Subject Dossiers

  • Aerial view of an African village, solar-powered well in the center

    Africa

Research Center

  • International Development