6 Contemporary Patterns, Trends And Development Implications Of International Migration From Botswana

Abstract

This chapter addresses patterns and trends of voluntary international migration from Botswana over the past half century. Migration is a household livelihood diversification portfolio. The chapter aims to assess the extent to which international migration promotes the realisation of development. Development encompasses the progressive realisation of economic and ecological efficiency, as well as the fulfilment of intra-and inter-generational equity. The chapter presents the contextual background within which international migration has evolved. It then examines the migration patterns and trends. The chapter then articulates their development and policy implications. Finally, it discusses the emerging themes linking emigration to development, with a view to making relevant policy recommendations. Reversal in migration, especially of unskilled migrants returning from South Africa, presents challenges to Botswana in terms of creating employment. The chapter also discusses the various possibilities of how this could be done. Keywords:Botswana; international migration; migration patterns; migration policy; migration trends; South Africa