Grįžtamoji migracija: protų susigrąžinimas ir prisitaikymo galimybės Lietuvoje
Return Migration: Brain Gain and Possibilities of Adaptation in Lithuania

Summary/Abstract: The article analyzes return migration to Lithuania, the returnees’ possibilities of adaptation, and their motivations to remain in the country. The aim is to reveal and evaluate person’s motivation to return and possibilities of adaptation. The object of this work is persons who have returned to Lithuania after living a substantial amount of time abroad, who are trying to use their accumulated experience in their homeland. The article analysis is based on original empirical research on the adaptation processes of returnees to Lithuania, employing the half-structured interview method. Dynamic systems access was used organizing the questionnaire and analysis of the data which offers to structure the data into the environment–status–expression variables and find their interactions. The research was carried out in 2011-2012 by interviewing 8 respondents. Analysis of the data focuses on the mental state of persons who have decided to return and the environmental factors influencing them. There are many different reasons why it is difficult for returnees to integrate in their home countries: it may be deficient knowledge of the language, cultural differences, social alienation, or discrimination. The study reveals the main reasons determining the decision to return to live in Lithuania and discusses factors which help or hinder the returnees to successfully establish themselves and use their accumulated human capital in their homeland. Rapidly changing society in Lithuania, possibility of a better quality of life, including the ability to work an intellectual work, accessible social services, cultural life and nature led to the return. Especially important is the environment of the family, and other relatives living in Lithuania. Decision to return mainly was based on importance of social contacts. These relationships have a greater effect on return than economic reasons. Significant role is dedicated to preserve those relations in exile.

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