Global Migration: A Critical Development Challenge and Opportunity

As global economic imbalances, diverging demographic trends, and climate change intensify, migration is poised to become a necessity for countries across all income levels. Currently, about 184 million people—2.3 percent of the world's population—live outside their country of nationality, with nearly half residing in low- and middle-income countries.

The World Development Report 2023 highlights the crucial role of migration in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. It proposes an integrated framework to maximize the development impacts of cross-border movements, benefiting destination and origin countries as well as migrants and refugees.

Drawing from labor economics and international law, the report introduces a "match and motive" matrix. This matrix focuses on aligning migrants' skills and attributes with the needs of destination countries and understanding the motives behind their movements. This approach allows policymakers to design tailored migration policies, distinguishing between different types of movements.

Effective international cooperation will be essential for managing migration. By adopting well-managed migration policies, countries can harness migration as a force for prosperity and development. The framework presented in the report provides a roadmap for policymakers to navigate the complexities of migration, ensuring it contributes positively to global development.