Publication: Understanding Migration in North Central America Countries: El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua
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2022-12-13
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2023-01-10
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This report explores different aspects of migration flows from North Central America countries, specifically from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. It provides an in-depth socioeconomic characterization of migrant households (those with a migrant household member) in these four countries, using the latest available data at the household level. Moreover, it provides a profile of migrants themselves, both as reported by their household members in their country of origin and by themselves in the United States - the main destination for North Central American migrants, except for Nicaraguans. In addition, the report explores some of the main factors behind the decision to migrate (referred as push and pull factors). The report examines three push factors that have been traditionally linked to migration flows in the region: (i) limited economic opportunities and low living standards; (ii) natural hazards, usually linked to climate change; and (iii) violence. Finally, it explores some of the pull factors that seem to attract migrants from these countries to the United States, including labor market outcomes and access to services. This analysis of who migrates and why can help inform policies and programs at the national, bilateral, and regional level. In turn, this can assist in maximizing the net benefits of migration, helping migrants as well as their respective countries of origin and destination.
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“World Bank. 2022. Understanding Migration in North Central America Countries: El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. © World Bank. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/38444 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO.”
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