Migration and Development: A Perspective from Asia

This report examines the effects of international migration on the economic and social development of countries involved, focusing on examples from the Asian region, although the lessons drawn are also applicable to other areas. Although much of the literature on the topic has tended to highlight the negative impacts on the development of origin countries, this study finds that the relationship between migration and development is a more complex one, and shows how several Asian countries have been able to use their diasporas to benefit development in countries of origin. The report considers the economic impact of remittances, looking at aggregate, regional and community levels as well as on household welfare. It also discusses the impact of migration on poverty, policies which encourage return migration, and makes recommendations for further research.