Key Takeaways
1. Migration Isn't Unprecedented or Out of Control.
Current levels of international migration are neither exceptionally high nor increasing.
Migration is stable. Despite media headlines and political rhetoric suggesting unprecedented mass migration and a world spinning out of control, the facts show remarkable stability. The share of international migrants in the world population has hovered around 3% since 1960. This means about 97% of people live in their country of birth.
Historical context. Migration levels were arguably higher in the late 19th and early 20th centuries during the peak of European imperialism and transatlantic migration. The major change isn't the volume, but the direction: Europe shifted from being a source of migrants to a destination, leading to increased non-European immigration in the West.
Internal migration dominates. International migration is dwarfed by movement within countries, especially in large, urbanizing nations like China and India. An estimated 80% of all migrants are internal migrants, representing about 12% of the world population. Most people prefer to stay close to home, and long-distance international moves remain the exception.
2. Development Increases, Not Decreases, Migration.
economic development in poor countries leads to more, not less, migration!
The migration paradox. Contrary to the popular belief that tackling poverty will reduce migration, evidence shows the opposite: emigration tends to increase as poor
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Review Summary
"How Migration Really Works" receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its comprehensive, fact-based approach to debunking common migration myths. Readers appreciate de Haas's non-partisan stance and his ability to challenge both left and right-wing assumptions. The book is praised for its clarity, thorough research, and eye-opening insights. Some reviewers note the repetitive nature of certain arguments but generally view this as a minor flaw. Many consider it essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of migration, particularly politicians and journalists.
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