Migration

Migration refers to the movement of people or animals across borders or within a country, with the aim of settling, at least temporarily. In human contexts, the terms emigration (leaving a place) and immigration (settling in a new place) are used; domestic migration refers to movement within a nation. Animal migration denotes seasonal or long-distance movements driven by resource availability.

Human migration types include internal vs international; voluntary vs forced; permanent, temporary, or seasonal. Migration can be labor-related, family-related, educational, or for asylum. Refugees and asylum seekers are international protection categories defined by law.

Drivers include economic opportunities, conflicts, persecution, environmental change and disasters, demographic shifts, and policy factors such as visa regimes and border controls. Globalization, networks, and diasporas influence willingness and ability to move.

Impacts are diverse and context-dependent. Destination regions may gain labor, entrepreneurship, and cultural diversity but also face integration and housing pressures. Origin regions may experience skills loss and remittances can help development. Migration is a key element of demographic and economic planning.

Data collection and governance: International organizations track migration flows, asylum applications, and migrant stocks. Policy debates focus on integration, protection obligations, and the balance between mobility and security. Historical examples include large-scale rural-to-urban moves, colonization-era migrations, and modern refugee flows.