The International Migration Outlook 2022, a report detailing global migration trends, was recently released by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The report provides an insightful analysis of migration patterns against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing both global and country-specific scenarios.
Highlights of the Report: Global Scenario
After 2020’s record decrease due to COVID-19, permanent-type migration to OECD countries saw a rebound of 22% in 2021. Family migration, representing more than four out of every ten new permanent immigrants to the OECD, experienced an increase of 40% that year.
In contrast, migration within free mobility areas experienced a lesser impact from the pandemic, but it still decreased by 17% in 2020. During the same year, there were 4.4 million international students enrolled in OECD nations, corresponding to 10% of all tertiary-level students.
Predominantly, the United States (22%), the United Kingdom (13%), and Australia (10%) emerged as the top countries welcoming international students. The U.S. remained the leading country in terms of permanent migration acceptance, with 834,000 permanent immigrants in 2021, which is 43% more than in 2020, but still 19% less than 2019 figures.
Meanwhile, the European Union experienced a less pronounced increase in permanent-type migration at 15%.
Indian Scenario
The report also detailed the significant contribution of students from China (22%) and India (10%) to foreign student populations in OECD countries. Approximately one-third of the global population aged between 20-29 years live in these two countries.
Specifically, Indian students showcased higher retention rates in nearly all OECD countries including Canada, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Japan compared to their Chinese counterparts. Generally, Indian students show a higher stay rate than the overall international student population.
About the OECD
The OECD is an intergovernmental economic organisation, established to stimulate economic progress and world trade. Most member countries are high-income economies with a high Human Development Index (HDI) and are considered developed nations. The organization was founded in 1961, with its headquarters situated in Paris, France. It comprises 38 member countries, Columbia and Costa Rica being the two latest members joined in April 2020 and May 2021, respectively. India is not a member but a key economic partner of the OECD. The organization releases pertinent reports and indices like the ‘Government at a Glance’ and ‘OECD Better Life Index’.
Different Types of Migration
Migration patterns can be categorized based on factors like movement pattern, decision-making approach and duration of stay.
Some of these types include Step Migration (migration from smaller to larger settlements over years), Circular Migration (cyclical migration experiences between origin and destination), and Chain Migration (migration of families at different life stages who bring people from their home location to new places).
In terms of decision-making, migration can be voluntary (based on personal will and desire for a better life) or involuntary (forced due to unfavorable environmental and political situations).
Furthermore, migration can also be classified by its duration as Permanent Migration (migration to another place over a long distance for living there for a long period) and Temporary Migration (migration to a country that is not intended to be permanent and for a specific purpose).
