Prospects for the return of Spanish scientists in the United Kingdom during the Great Recession

Abstract

The economic crisis that began in 2008 caused an increase in skilled Spanish emigration, including scientists, many of whom settled in the United Kingdom. The objective of this article is to analyse the perspectives of a group of Spanish scientists regarding remaining in the United Kingdom or returning to Spain during the economic crisis in order to better understand this dilemma faced by this type of highly-qualified migrant. A qualitative method strategy was employed through semi-structured in-depth interviews carried out with 20 researchers. The results of the study show that, although the idea and desire to return was a recurring theme brought up by the researchers interviewed, the majority of them lean towards remaining in the United Kingdom. Professional and family/personal factors emerged when the interviewees discuss whether to return or remain. However, the study revealed that the professional aspect is a central factor in the issue of return.