Factors Influencing the Tendency of Young People to Migrate Abroad – An Example From Northern Poland

Abstract

Abstract Subject and purpose of work Determining the directions of foreign migration of students of management of the University of Warmia and Mazury (UWM) in Olsztyn and the factors encouraging young people to emigrate. Materials and methods A diagnostic survey method was used. This paper presents part of the results of a wider survey of young people conducted in early 2021. Participation in the study was anonymous and voluntary. A non-probabilistic sampling technique known as convenience sampling was used. The survey covered the entire population of management students at UWM in Olsztyn. 93 questionnaires were returned. Correspondence analysis was used to verify the hypotheses. Results Economic factors proved to be the most important factors for respondents: higher wages, greater job and promotion opportunities abroad. Conclusions Young people show a high tendency to migrate abroad, with Germany and the UK being the main destinations. They see foreign migration as a way to improve their life situation. In order to keep them on the domestic labour market, competition regarding wages should be increased and flexible work should be allowed.