How aid, trade, and development affect migration
This article reviews the current literature on the effects of aid, trade, and development on international migration. It begins with a quantitative and qualitative snapshot of international migration, which is used to identify patterns and trends as well as gaps in the current statistics. The descriptive section is followed by an outline of the general theories of international migration. The article then examines the evidence on how government policies as well as the rela tive levels of development in source countries affect the magnitude and structure of emigration. The effects of aid, trade, and investment on migration are then evaluated from the perspective of their indirect effects on development as well as their potential direct effects. Examples from specific cases are used throughout to illustrate the complexities of migration determinants. A final section examines the policy implications, draws general conclusions, and suggests areas for further research.