The ‘Global Migration Report 2020’ published by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) reveals that India is the largest source of international migrants, with a diaspora of 17.5 million people worldwide. The report also shows that India received the highest remittance of $78.6 billion from its overseas population.
Insights on Global Migrants
According to the IOM’s latest study, the total number of international migrants in 2019 was approximately 270 million, a small fraction representing only 3.5% of the global populace. Therefore, an overwhelming majority (96.5%) of people live in their birth country.
The United States remains the most popular destination for international migrants, hosting about 50.7 million. More than half of these migrants live in Europe and North America. Following India, which tops the list of source countries, are Mexico and China with 11.8 million and 10.7 million emigrants respectively.
Observations on Remittances
Remittances at a global level increased to $689 billion in 2018. After India, which received the highest remittance, China saw an inflow of $67.4 billion and Mexico $35.7 billion. The United States remained the top remittance-sending nation ($68 billion), followed by the United Arab Emirates ($44.4 billion) and Saudi Arabia ($36.1 billion).
| Top Remittance Sending Countries | Amount |
|---|---|
| United States | $68 billion |
| United Arab Emirates | $44.4 billion |
| Saudi Arabia | $36.1 billion |
Reasons for Migration
The economic opportunities found in the U.S., France, Russia, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia have created significant migration flows from poorer nations to these wealthier countries. The Gulf countries, in particular, attract a considerable number of temporary labor migrants. Violent conflicts in countries such as the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Myanmar, South Sudan, Syria, and Yemen have caused massive internal displacement over the past two years, forcing a record 41.3 million people to flee their homes by the end of 2018.
About International Organisation for Migration
Established in 1951 after World War II, the International Organization for Migration started as the Provisional Intergovernmental Committee for the Movement of Migrants from Europe (PICMME). It is now a leading intergovernmental organization working under the United Nations’ mandate and cooperates closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners.
With 173 member states and 8 states holding observer status, IOM aims to promote orderly and humane migration for all involved, providing services and advice to governments and migrants.
The Path Ahead
The collected data shed light on the vital role that migrants and migration play in both their home and host countries’ development. By facilitating orderly, safe, regular and responsible migration, we can significantly contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
