What We Know About Circular Migration and Enhanced Mobility

Despite the skepticism with which some typically regard circular migration, many policymakers and experts in the migration field have come to recognize the benefits that well-managed circulation can bring to destinations, origins, and to migrants themselves. For countries of origin, circular migration can relieve labor surpluses; for destination countries, it can provide the flexibility to quickly overcome skills shortages while adapting to long-term labor market shifts. For migrants, circular migration offers the opportunity to earn higher wages and gain international experience.

Effective management of circular migration to facilitate development and poverty reduction requires cooperation both within national governments and between origins and destinations. Migration agencies have already begun to open avenues of cooperation between governments, but development agencies in both origin and destination countries must also work together to integrate migration cooperation into their development thinking and actions.