Leveraging Return Migration for Development: The Role of Countries of Origin. A Literature Review

Return migration is an integral and significant element in the cycle of international migration. In recent years, it has received increased focus from host and origin countries because both groups are interested in leveraging return migration to their economic advantage. Despite this growing attention, limited research has been conducted to understand the decision-making dynamics behind migrants’ returning to their home countries and the effectiveness of policies and programs in their reintegration process.

The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of the existing literature on the contribution of the returnees to their origin countries and the roles that countries of origin can play in facilitating return migration for their economic development.