Global Migration Trends: Causes and Consequences
Maya Ezzeddine
Conflict, climate and the search for work are driving record movement of people. We look at the causes and the effects.
The number of people living outside their country of birth has reached a record high, according to the latest international figures.
Why people move
Economic opportunity remains the most common reason, but conflict and climate-related disasters are playing a growing role. Many migrants move within their own region rather than to distant continents.
The impact at home and abroad
Money sent home by workers abroad now exceeds foreign aid in many countries. Host countries face pressure on housing and services, but also benefit from new workers in sectors facing shortages.