Migration and Remittances

IFPRI conducts evidence-based research both on the factors leading to voluntary migration and migrant remittances, and on the effects of migration on both migrants and source households, including effects on food security and household well-being. Our research further considers the gendered drivers and impacts of migration, including examining access to resources and livelihood choices by those who remain behind.

Evidence shows that internal and international migration can create significant economic benefits for migrants as well as both source and destination communities. Remittances—the money sent by migrants to their home countries—are important sources of income that drive economic growth in migrant sending countries. Voluntary migration can also improve food security both for migrants and the households they leave behind. Those who remain behind can benefit from new economic and decision-making opportunities, but they may also face growing work burdens and inadequate access to resources; attention to empowering such individuals is critical.

IFPRI’s research on this topic is closely aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG1, SDG2, SDG8, SDG10, SDG11, and SDG16.