Policy responses to skilled migration: retention, return and circulation

This paper looks at different possible policy responses to the emigration of highly skilled persons from developing countries (the brain drain) with the goal of minimising its adverse effects and promoting the sharing of gains between source and host countries.

It focuses on three policy approaches: retention, return and circulation of skills. It argues that the best strategy to deal with the problem of loss of skilled labour is one based on the concept of circulation of skills, which yields mutual benefits for both sending and host countries. The paper highlights several measures that can facilitate the process of circulation, including greater cooperation between countries of origin and host countries than observed at present.

Specific measures proposed include:

• Sending countries:
  • promote linkages with nationals abroad: promote diaspora networks
  • promote short term movements of professionals using GATS Mode 4 and other means
  • dual citizenship and diaspora recognition arrangements
  • greater emphasis on R&D and creation of centers of excellence with support from receiving countries
  • incentives to attract expatriate investments
• Receiving countries:
  • a brain-circulation friendly visa regime
  • promote networking with home countries and support diaspora for source country development
  • reduce student fees especially from major source countries
  • encourage temporary movements of qualified staff
  • divert technical assistance to education and training fields
  • awareness-raising of nationals on the contribution of skilled migrants to the host country

[adapted from author]