Migration, Remittances, and Sustainable Development in Africa

This book examines the links between migration, remittances, and sustainable development in Africa, making evidence-based policy recommendations to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. It explores themes such as economic transformation, education, corruption, conflict, gender equality, and youth, and discusses challenges in managing migration flows.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate connections between migration, remittances, and sustainable development in Africa, offering a robust multidisciplinary analysis. Through a wealth of evidence-based policy recommendations, it aims to contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The book explores various themes, including migration and remittances, their relationship with economic transformation, education and knowledge, corruption and conflict, as well as cross-cutting issues such as gender equality and youth. It presents a diverse range of country contexts, providing a rich tapestry of insights. Additionally, the volume addresses challenges in managing migration flows, making it an invaluable resource for advanced students, academics, and policy makers in development economics and sustainable development.

Introduction:
The African continent has experienced significant migration patterns in recent decades, driven by factors such as poverty, conflict, and economic opportunities. While migration can bring benefits, such as increased income and skills, it can also pose challenges, including social integration, remittances, and sustainable development. This book aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the links between migration, remittances, and sustainable development in Africa, with a particular focus on policy recommendations to promote sustainable outcomes.

Migration and Remittances:
Migration is a complex phenomenon that involves the movement of people from one place to another, often in search of better economic opportunities. In Africa, migration has played a significant role in shaping the continent's economic and social landscape. According to the United Nations Population Division, Africa is the second-largest migrant-receiving region in the world, with an estimated 27 million migrants living in the continent in 2017. Remittances, on the other hand, are the money sent by migrants back to their home countries, which can have a significant impact on economic development and poverty reduction.

Economic Transformation:
Migration and remittances can contribute to economic transformation in Africa. Migrants can bring valuable skills, knowledge, and capital to their host countries, which can stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities. Remittances, in particular, can play a crucial role in poverty reduction by providing a source of income for families back home. However, there are challenges associated with managing migration flows, such as ensuring that migrants are treated fairly and that their rights are protected.

Education and Knowledge:
Education and knowledge are key drivers of sustainable development. Migration can provide opportunities for individuals to access education and improve their skills, which can enhance their employability and earning potential. Remittances can also contribute to education by providing funding for schools, universities, and other educational institutions. However, there are challenges associated with education in migrant-receiving countries, such as limited access to quality education and high dropout rates.

Corruption and Conflict:
Corruption and conflict can undermine sustainable development in Africa. Migrants, particularly those in low-wage jobs, may be vulnerable to exploitation and abuse, which can lead to social and economic marginalization. Conflict can also disrupt migration flows and exacerbate poverty and inequality. Addressing corruption and conflict is essential for promoting sustainable development in Africa.

Gender Equality and Youth:
Gender equality and youth are cross-cutting issues that are closely linked to sustainable development. Migration can have a significant impact on gender equality, as women are often disproportionately affected by migration. Young people are also critical to sustainable development, as they are the future leaders and innovators who will shape the continent's future. Addressing gender equality and youth is essential for promoting sustainable development in Africa.

Challenges in Managing Migration Flows:
Managing migration flows is a complex task that requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves addressing the root development needs of both sending and receiving countries, as well as addressing the social and economic implications of migration. Challenges in managing migration flows include ensuring that migration is legal and orderly, protecting the rights of migrants, and addressing the root causes of migration, such as poverty and conflict.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the literature on migration, remittances, and sustainable development in Africa. It offers a comprehensive examination of the links between these three phenomena and provides evidence-based policy recommendations to promote sustainable outcomes. By addressing the key themes examined in the book, such as economic transformation, education and knowledge, corruption and conflict, gender equality and youth, and challenges in managing migration flows, we can work towards achieving the SDGs and creating a more sustainable future for Africa.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367560096