What does the migration transition model describe?

The migration transition model describes how migration patterns evolve in correlation with changes in a country’s demographic structure throughout the process of development. This model is closely aligned with the stages of the demographic transition model, suggesting that as countries move from pre-industrial to industrial and then post-industrial stages, the nature and scale of migration shifts accordingly.

In the early stages of demographic transition, characterized by high birth and death rates, emigration may be limited as populations are relatively stable. As countries industrialize and improve healthcare, lower death rates often lead to population growth, prompting more people to migrate in search of better opportunities. Eventually, in more developed nations, these migration patterns can shift again, potentially leading to increased immigration as countries have labor shortages or are in need of diverse skills.

This cyclical relationship highlights how migration is not merely a reaction to economic factors but is also deeply intertwined with demographic transitions, making the first option the most accurate representation of the migration transition model. This understanding is crucial for analyzing current global migration trends and the factors influencing them.