11.2.2

Social & Demographic Tensions of Migration

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Tension Caused by International Migration - Cultural

International migration can result in local and national tensions between countries.

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Culture clash - host country

  • Conflict can develop between host communities and 'newcomers'. If migrants do not speak the host language well, this can cause tensions and fear.
  • People with nationalist or patriotic feelings may feel threatened by new arrivals.
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Brain drain - source country

  • Migrants leaving can result in a 'brain drain' of skilled labour out of the country of origin. Although remittances may be sent back to families it may be hard to offset the loss of skilled labour.
  • Brain drain can also be called human capital flight.
  • The IAB estimates that Cambodia has lost roughly 50% of its skilled labour to brain drain.
  • It is often only the wealthier and better educated who are able to leave a country.
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Human trafficking - source country

  • Those migrating may have to work with human traffickers. This leaves people, particularly women and children, vulnerable to exploitation and forced labour.
  • It is estimated that there are more than 10,000 modern slaves, doing forced unpaid labour in the UK.

Tension Caused by International Migration - Demographic

International migration can result in local tensions and national tensions between countries.

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Public services in host country

  • Immigrant populations, especially if they are segregated in places like refugee camps can put public services in the host country under pressure.
  • There will be more people needing the services, but also education, housing and healthcare infrastructure may need to be build in refugee camps.
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Refugee crises

  • Refugees escaping wars may need emergency food, shelter, water and medicines.
  • Organisations like the United Nations and UNICEF may work to offer these facilities, but governments may also be involved.
  • Some of these people may want to return to their country of origin now or in the future, but the risks are high.

Jump to other topics

1Tectonic Processes & Hazards

2Option 2A: Glaciated Landscapes & Change

3Option 2B: Coastal Landscapes & Change

4Globalisation

5Option 4A: Regenerating Places

6Option 4B: Diverse Places

7The Water Cycle & Water Insecurity (A2 only)

8The Carbon Cycle & Energy Security (A2 only)

9Superpowers (A2 only)

10Option 8A: Health & Human Rights (A2 only)

11Option 8B: Migration & Identity (A2 only)

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