The Two Sides of National Policy for Skilled Workers: Reducing Permanent Exodus and Encouraging Immigration of Skilled Labour.

Study | March 2012

(Only available in German)

Germany is competing for international talent. Encouraging the immigration of skilled labour and, at the same time, reducing emigration are two sides of the same political coin. This study explores the factors that contribute to the migration of highly skilled workers and describes different migration management processes. It also shows that the quality of migration management is only one factor that plays a role in addition to economic and socio-political parameters. Data on the complex issue of emigration are still scarce. The analysis of the existing studies on the motives of emigrants clearly shows that this topic has been inadequately researched. As a result, possible research approaches are discussed and requirements for a suitable research project outlined.