How effective is migration policy in controlling migration flows? Recent research shows that policy can influence migration processes, but cannot control them completely. Measures that are more symbolic in nature in the destination country have a limited effect on migration decisions. Migration decisions are made on a heterogeneous basis. In addition to economic considerations, networks, norms, security, gender and education shape the decision to leave and the choice of destination country. Push factors such as conflict or persecution remain key drivers that can hardly be influenced by the destination country. These are often more important than pull factors, which are the main focus of the political debate in Germany.
© 2025 Tobias Heidland, published by ZBW – Leibniz-Informationszentrum Wirtschaft
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