Regional aspects of migration

This chapter analyses the regional aspects of international migration. It does not pretend to cover the whole set of issues related to the regional aspects of migration; the aim rather is to address the question "Where do migrants live?" The existence of international differences in the geographic distribution of immigrants raises question about the factors that affect where immigrants decide to live when they arrive in the host country. Among these factors are: i) the presence of family members or of persons of the same ethnic origin; ii) the point of entry into the country and the proximity of the country of destination to the country of origin; iii) the economic attractiveness of the destination region.

The first part of the study examines the role played by the personal characteristics of immigrants (country of origin, reason for entry, age at the time of migration, duration of stay) but also by the characteristics of the destination region. The analysis focuses on the economic determinants of the choice of the region of destination. Secondary migration movements (secondary internal migration or departure to another foreign country) and their impact on the geographic concentration of the immigrant population are also considered.

The second part presents some features of regional migration programmes in Australia and Canada. The analysis examines the measures implemented to seek to attract immigrants to regions with different levels of economic development, as well as to large and intermediate cities. The links between regional development policies and migration policies are emphasised.