International Manpower Flows in Asia: An Overview

Abstract

Significant differentials in demographic and economic variables shape the nature, extent and direction of economic migration within the diverse Asian region. The Middle East and North Africa have been prime destinations for temporary labor from Asia. However, intra-Asian migration is increasing, characterized by movement of labor from countries at earlier stages of demographic and economic transition to the rapidly growing economies of the region. This article presents a country-by-country overview of historical, economic and sociodemographic variables; statistical data and assessments of the nature and impact of migration; and future trends. Regions covered include: 1) South Asia and the Indian Ocean Islands, 2) Southeast Asia, 3) Northeast Asia.