emigranten

Emigranten, in Dutch usage, are individuals who leave their country of origin to establish residence in another country. The term highlights the act of emigration, as opposed to immigration, which describes entry into a new country. In many languages the corresponding terms are closely related and define one side of the migration process.

Etymology: from Latin emigrare, meaning to move away from home. In Dutch, emigreer means to emigrate; emigrant or emigranten denote people who undertake this move.

Causes and patterns: Emigration is driven by push factors (economic hardship, political instability, persecution) and pull factors (better employment, education, safety, family reunification). Historical waves have connected continents through trade, colonization, and economic change; modern emigration often involves legal pathways such as visas and work permits, as well as irregular migration.

Effects: Emigrants shape both their home and host societies. Origin countries may experience remittances and brain drain, while diaspora networks can foster cultural exchange and investment. Host countries may gain skilled labor and diversity, yet face integration challenges and policy debates about immigration management.

Terminology and data usage: Emigrants are counted from the perspective of the country of origin; immigrants are counted from the destination country. National statistics and international organizations distinguish between emigration, immigration, and net migration, often with distinct timeframes and definitions.