Trends, Driving Forces and Impacts of Migration in Hungary
Trends, Driving Forces and Impacts of Migration in Hungary

Summary/Abstract: Abstract. International migration has not played as important a role in Hungary’s economic development as have international trade and foreign investments. Nevertheless, immigration has affected considerably the demographic processes of the country in the last 15-20 years. Comparing the 1990s with the recent years, the main objective of this study is to highlight the new trends, driving forces and (potential) consequences of migration in the case of Hungary. The analysis points out the traditionally important (but slightly decreasing) role of ethnic Hungarians living in the neighbouring countries in immigration. It also describes the main factors explaining the relatively low level of emigration, and shows the growing importance of some special patterns of migration. It is concluded that migration has not had significant economic impacts on the macro-level, but that it has affected considerably the development of some industries and regions. It is also suggested that the new challenges and opportunities that have been emerged since EU accession require Hungary to map out a long-term migration strategy.

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