WORLD MIGRATION REPORT 2024 - INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

News: India received $111 billion in remittances in 2022: World Migration Report 2024

 

What's in the news?

       According to the United Nations’ latest World Migration Report, India was the highest recipient of remittances from abroad at $111 billion in 2022.

 

Key takeaways:

       Its remittance receipts were way ahead of its closely ranked peers Mexico ($61.1 billion), China ($51 billion), Philippines ($38.05 billion) and France ($30.04 billion).

 

World Migration Report 2024:

       The World Migration Report 2024 plays a crucial role in elucidating the complexity of human mobility through evidence-based data and analysis.

       In an era marked by uncertainty, understanding migration dynamics is essential for informed decision-making and effective policy responses.

       The World Migration Report sheds light on longstanding trends and emerging challenges.

 

Aim of the Report:

       The IOM Report aims to help dispel myths, provide critical insights, and inspire meaningful action in addressing the challenges and opportunities of human mobility. 

 

Key Findings from the World Migration Report 2024:

1. Resilience of International Migration and Remittances Amidst COVID-19:

       International migration remains a driver of human development and economic growth.

       This is highlighted by a more than 650 percent increase in international remittances from 2000 to 2022, rising from USD 128 billion to USD 831 billion.

       The growth continued despite predictions from many analysts that remittances would decrease substantially because of COVID-19. 

 

2. Remittance to Low and Middle-income Countries:

       Of the 831 billion in remittances, 647 billion were sent by migrants to low and middle-income countries.

       These remittances can constitute a significant portion of those countries’ GDPs, and globally, these remittances now surpass foreign direct investment in those countries.

 

Challenges Highlighted by the Report:

Highlighting key findings, the report reveals that while international migration continues to drive human development, challenges persist.

 

1. Unprecedented Levels of Displacement:

       The global population of international migrants stands at approximately 281 million, while the number of individuals displaced by conflict, violence, disasters, and other factors increased to a record high of 117 million.

       This underscores the pressing need to address displacement crises urgently.

 

2. Misinformation and Politicization:

       Most migration is regular, safe, and regionally focused, directly linked to opportunities and livelihoods.

       Yet, misinformation and politicization have clouded public discourse, necessitating a clear and accurate portrayal of migration dynamics. 

 

3. Conflict and Climate Change:

       Conflict and climate change are identified as the primary factors driving global displacement.

       The total number of international migrants worldwide stands at approximately 281 million, with 117 million being displaced, marking the highest level ever recorded.

 

Migration and India:

       In India, climate impacts notably influence internal migration from states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.

       India hosts the largest number of international migrants, totalling 18 million, with significant populations residing in countries such as the UAE, USA, and Saudi Arabia.

       In 2022, India became the top recipient of remittances, receiving over USD 111 billion, making it the first country to surpass the USD 100 billion mark.

 

Go back to basics:

International Organization for Migration (IOM):

       The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is part of the UN System.

 

Headquarters - Geneva, Switzerland.

 

Member Countries - 175 (including India)

Objectives:

       Driving solutions to displacement and facilitating pathways for regular migration.