Migration Trends from Georgia

Migration in a globalized world is an ever-growing and complex process influenced by various social, economic, and political factors. For Georgia, migration has become especially significant in recent years, as economic and social challenges are pushing many young people to seek better living conditions abroad. In 2023, over 163,000 people emigrated from Georgia, of whom 70% were under the age of 30. These figures reflect the demographic challenges facing the country and the gradual decline in its population.

Between 2022 and 2023, a total of 264,300 citizens left Georgia, of whom 146,300 returned, while 118,000 remained abroad. These figures provide insight into the dynamics of emigration from Georgia, where the rate of return is much lower. This trend becomes even more evident when considering that, in 2023, 163,480 citizens emigrated, while only 91,896 people returned.

What is particularly concerning is that young people are the main participants in the migration process. According to IDFI, 70% of those who left the country in 2023 were under the age of 30, of whom 43% were children. This means that Georgia is losing individuals who could play an active role in the country’s future and contribute to its economic and social development.

Over the last decade (2014-2023), 815,608 citizens left Georgia, while only 550,919 returned. This indicates that a significant portion of those who emigrate do not return home. According to United Nations data, in 2020, there were 861,077 people born in Georgia living abroad, and based on current trends, this number is expected to reach one million by 2024.

Global migration has always been and remains an important issue for both developed and developing countries. According to United Nations data from 2022, there are over 281 million migrants worldwide, which constitutes about 3.6% of the global population. Migration is often driven by the desire for economic improvement, educational opportunities, and better security conditions.

One of the most active waves of migration in Europe comes from Eastern Europe, where many young people leave their homelands in search of better living conditions. For example, a significant number of migrants from Poland and Romania move to Western Europe to find better employment opportunities and higher income. Similarly, the primary reasons for migration from Georgia are economic challenges and the pursuit of better living conditions.

Moreover, in recent years, there has been a growing trend of “brain drain” globally, particularly affecting countries like Georgia, where young and educated specialists leave the country in search of better career opportunities. This issue severely impacts the economic and social development of the country, as it results not only in a population decline but also in the loss of highly qualified professionals.

Migration poses a serious challenge for Georgia. The migration of young people and children is particularly alarming because it means that the country is losing not only the current workforce but also potentially skilled workers in the future. Georgia’s economic and social situation significantly impacts migration processes, highlighting the need for policies aimed at retaining the population and encouraging their return under better conditions.

In the future, it is crucial for Georgia to create an environment where young people have opportunities to receive proper education, find good working conditions, and access social protection. The government must work towards ensuring economic stability and funding programs that aim to bring back young people and skilled professionals to the country.

Global experience shows that migration can be reduced and the population encouraged to return if there is a favorable social and economic environment that offers people the possibility of improving their lives. For Georgia, addressing this challenge is particularly important to prevent a decrease in the population and to enable the development of its economy and society.