Global Migration

Global migration is a process with a long history; people have always moved for better opportunities and livelihood. In modern times, there are many factors that drive migration. One of the main factors is lack of economic opportunity. According to the World Bank (n.d.),

For many poor people whose labor is their only asset, migration to a richer country offers an opportunity to escape poverty. The poorest of the poor, however, tend to migrate internally, as they are unable to afford the costs associated with moving abroad.

Large movements of labour-based mobility can be seen on the Mexico-US border, as an example. Escaping conflict, being a displaced person, facing political persecution, and climate change are all factors that determine patterns of migration and impact the resources a newcomer will have upon arrival in Canada. These factors are distinct from migrating to Canada in the economic class, where one has more choice in their move and typically arrives with more resources.

The global system of migration has many benefits, such as remittances and an increased tax base. World Bank (n.d.) summarized these gains as follows:

Origin countries can benefit through increased remittances, investments, trade, and transfers of skill and technology, resulting in reduced poverty and unemployment. In 2022, remittance flows to low and middle-income countries are expected to reach $630 billion, more than three times the total of development.

The countries that receive large numbers of migrants also benefit through “increased supplies of labor, skills, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Migrants pay taxes and contribute to social security systems” (World Bank, n.d.).

Many factors contribute to the increasing disparity of wealth within and among nations. Understanding the complexity of these issues and their impact on migration patterns, the lives of Indigenous Peoples, and the class system within Canada are important when working with clients, to best understand their lived experience, access to resources, and the potential systemic barriers they may encounter.

References

World Bank. (n.d.). Migration. https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/migration/overview#:~:text=For%20many%20poor%20people%20whose,costs%20associated%20with%20moving%20abroad.