International Labour Migration Consequences for Countries of Origin

In this paper I give an overview of how contemporary international labour migration can affect the country of origin. I do not intend to reach a grand conclusion concerning the ultimate effect of labour emigration on development. International labour migration is a complex phenomenon with a multitude of actors involved, occurring in a wide variety of contexts. A more satisfying approach, therefore, is to explore what effects are possible and who gains and profits under varying circumstances. Furthermore, international labour migration is likely to evoke changes which are difficult to assess normatively, but are nonetheless influential on society. I end by analyzing the recent shift towards more positive views on the consequences of migration for countries of origin and cautioning against the belief that an ultimate net effect can be estimated.