It is with great concern that I am writing on the issue of migration and its global effects on Third World nations. Migration patterns occur mostly with professionals migrating from developing countries to developed ones. While this can be beneficial to developed or First World countries, this worldwide phenomenon is attracting attention globally, due to its negative impact on developing countries.
Why do people migrate? The main answer is simply for a better standard of living. There are also numerous other reasons why people tend to migrate such as for better job opportunities. Third World nations rarely offer qualified or skilled individuals employment due to lack resources and technology.
For example, there are people who have been educated at local educational institutions and are qualified with degrees and higher levels of education, but are unable to acquire jobs in many fields. Some also opt to attain their education in First World countries as it is seen as "better" and of a "higher standard" than if done locally. Some choose to return home, others do not. Another factor encouraging migration is the lure of higher salaries, since the currencies of developing countries are of a lessor value to those of the First World, and in most instances they are depreciating in value.
There is also the inaccessibility of advanced technology in Third World nations. This affects the quality of life for those who reside there. One major sector that is affected is health. There is a lack of proper medical equipment to perform major surgeries and medication to prescribe for life threatening diseases. Even today many major surgeries cannot be done locally and must be done abroad. The health sector also suffers when medical personnel migrate. This is a classic example of "brain drain."
Another factor that contributes to migration is instability of political conditions and lack of good governance of the Third World. This can be seen by the challenges faced by Caribbean countries in curbing high crime and murder rates. Citizens who are affected by these instances flee the country while encouraging others to do so. Lack of proper infrastructure such as proper roads, buildings, transportation and basic necessities such as water and electricity are still prominent issues.
Due to the above mentioned issues, most developing countries encounter migration and a brain drain. It affects their economies resulting in less production of quality goods and services, less expansion and growth in industries as well as in technology.
Globalisation and its effects have left less developed countries heavily dependent on First World nations.
What we need to do to turn this around is encourage professionals to stay in their home countries for the betterment of it by offering incentives to stay. Better education, jobs, working conditions, security and benefits are a great start. Better infrastructure as well as tools and equipment, good governance, good transport are also needed. What are those in authority doing about this? Seems we have a long way to go.
N Mohammed