Theorizing migration-development interactions: towards an integrated approach

Globalization has resulted in accelerated rates of migration of people between countries both nationally and internationally. People often migrate in a bid to diversify their resources such as labour as well as self-insure against livelihood risks. This trend has resulted in an increase in the interactions of migration and development. Migrant remittances have emerged as a key factor constituting the core of these interactions. This paper seeks to review theories on the migration-development nexus in the context of remittances and their role in development. While this paper traces the evolution of migration theory, an attempt will be made to demonstrate the potential for integrating two theories, namely the New Economics of labour Migration and the Sustainable livelihoods Approach. It could be argued that the integration of these theories could best assist in understanding the migration-development nexus in a more holistic fashion. This could assist in a better understanding of migration-development inter...