Завръщащите се мигранти: европейски и български перспективи
Return Migration: European and Bulgarian Perspectives
Contributor(s): Andrey Nonchev (Editor), Vesselin Mintchev (Editor), Irena Zareva (Editor), Venelin Boshnakov (Editor), Maria Bakalova (Editor), Mihaela Misheva (Editor), Marieta Hristova (Editor)
Subject(s): Social Sciences, Economy, Education, Sociology, Higher Education , Migration Studies, Human Resources in Economy, Socio-Economic Research
Published by: Университет за национално и световно стопанство (УНСС)
Keywords: Bulgaria; European Union; Migration; Return Migration; High Skilled Migration; Migration Models; Reintegration
Summary/Abstract: In this collection are published papers presented at the scientific conference “Return Migration: European and Bulgarian perspectives”, held on 28 February 2020 at the University of National and World Economy (UNWE) . The co-organizers of the scientific conference were the Department of Economic Sociology at the University of National and World Economy and the Economic Research Institute at the Bulgarian Academy of Science. The scientific conference is organized under a project financed with funds for research of UNWE under contract № NP-15/2019. The goal of the conference was to gather contributions to the conference from researchers, analysts, political practitioners and PhD students in the following thematic areas: i) Return migration: state-of-the-art theories and research ii) Migration trajectories and return: factors and motivational structures iii) Segmentation and stratification of returnees iv) Returnees’ impact on Bulgarian economy and society v) Institutional context, legal frame and policies for return migration and reintegration of returnees.
- Print-ISBN-13: 978-619-232-346-2
- Page Count: 174
- Publication Year: 2020
- Language: English, Bulgarian
Theorizing Transnational and Return Migration
Theorizing Transnational and Return Migration
(Theorizing Transnational and Return Migration)
- Author(s):Paolo Ruspini
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Sociology, Migration Studies
- Page Range:9-21
- No. of Pages:13
- Keywords:Migrant Transnationalism; Return and Circular Migration; Migration Theory; Empirical Research
- Summary/Abstract:The contemporary features of international migration and mobility have resulted into an increasingly blurred distinction between countries of origin, transit and destination of migratory flows. Circular and return patterns of mobility and migration have a leverage on integration practices and pose several challenges for migration scholars and stakeholders. In this regard, the introduction of a transnational approach allows to go beyond an essentialist and/ or purely ethnic perspective on return migration. The transnational perspective does view return not at the end of migration cycle but with return the migration process continues. Pertinent research questions include the following: First, how do current patterns of migrant transnationalism and return migration relate to each other? Secondly, what is the unique contribution of social networks and transnationalism to comprehend return migration? Thirdly, what migration theory can learn from empirical research? This paper aims at elucidating some of these aspects by linking migration theory with relevant examples from empirical research.
Policies for Return Migration in Conditions of Intensive High Skilled Emigration
Policies for Return Migration in Conditions of Intensive High Skilled Emigration
(Policies for Return Migration in Conditions of Intensive High Skilled Emigration)
- Author(s):Verica Janeska
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Sociology, Migration Studies
- Page Range:22-37
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:Migration Policies; Return Migration; High Skilled Emigration; Virtual Return; Diaspora
- Summary/Abstract:This paper aims to explore which are the realistic policy options for return migration in conditions of intensive intellectual emigration. It provides an overview of the relevant theoretical aspects and experiences of the countries that have faced with great emigration abroad, as well as, the policy responses to high skilled emigration (“six Rs”) and the possibilities of their application in Balkan countries with high skilled emigration. Beside that, the example of the Republic of North Macedonia and its recently adopted Strategy for cooperation with the diaspora is presented. The literature review and observed experiences of the countries with intensive and long-term intellectual emigration, confirm that as long as the reasons for emigration abroad are not eliminated, the permanent return of migrants cannot be expected. In these circumstances, the attention should be paid on policies related to temporary return and virtual return. As for the policy responses to skilled emigration (“six Rs”) and their application in the Balkan countries, only three of them (retention through economic development, temporary return and resourcing expatriates/diaspora options) should be implemented. Recent activities of the Government of North Macedonia, for the large-scale emigration abroad reduction and stimulating return migration, are related with the main determinants of these trends. They are part of the macroeconomic policy for socio-economic development, reducing unemployment, increasing employment and standard of living of the citizens, advance working conditions, as well as improving the political situation in the country and its position regarding the Euro-Atlantic integration. Also, in 2019 the National Strategy of the Republic of North Macedonia for cooperation with the diaspora for the period 2019-2023 was adopted. The strategy has four pillars that correspond with its four strategic goals (political, legal and consular issues; diaspora and economic development; education, science and youth; cultural relations, cultural identity and cultural heritage).
Professional Trajectories and Factors for Sustainable Return of Highly Qualified Bulgarians
Professional Trajectories and Factors for Sustainable Return of Highly Qualified Bulgarians
(Professional Trajectories and Factors for Sustainable Return of Highly Qualified Bulgarians)
- Author(s):Vanya Ivanova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Sociology, Migration Studies
- Page Range:38-52
- No. of Pages:15
- Keywords:Sustainable Return; Highly Qualified Returnees; Professional Trajectories; Civil Activism; Bulgaria
- Summary/Abstract:The article will explore the motivation factors and professional trajectories of young highly qualified Bulgarians who returned to Bulgaria in the years around 2010. In this longitudinal study, participants’ responses upon their return will be compared to their current situation through secondary qualitative interviews about 10 years later. The analysis in the paper will focus on three important aspects of the highly qualified return experience: (1) sustainability of the return – are the highly qualified returnees still in Bulgaria, did they have possibilities to re-migrate, and what is their attitude towards the return decision looking at it retrospectively; (2) professional realization, how their professional trajectories have developed through time, are they working in the same area as upon their return; (3) other factors of sustainable return and (4), civil activism, to what extend returnees participate in different forms of civil initiatives, viewed as an additional form of contributing to the Bulgarian society.
Mobility Patterns of Eastern European Immigrants Resident in Spain
Mobility Patterns of Eastern European Immigrants Resident in Spain
(Mobility Patterns of Eastern European Immigrants Resident in Spain)
- Author(s):Rafael Viruela
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Sociology, Migration Studies
- Page Range:53-68
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:Spain; Bulgarian And Romanian Migrants; Financial Crisis; Geographical Mobility
- Summary/Abstract:This article reviews the mobility strategies adopted in recent years by the population born in Bulgaria and Romania, the two Eastern European countries with the highest levels of immigration to Spain. The financial and employment crisis which began in 2008, worsened in 2011 and manifested itself above all as an employment crisis has had a major impact on the dynamics of this migration flow. Reduced inflows and fundamentally, increased outflows (return, remigration) has reduced the stock of Bulgarian and Romanian residents by 30% in a very short time. Internal migration which involves changing the place of residence has also been reduced because the crisis has affected all Spain’s regions to a greater or lesser extent. However, inter-province travel for employment reasons has increased. Internal labour migration is related basically to temporary job opportunities in agriculture. Immigrants resident in Spain who travel from one province to others are joined by their compatriots from abroad. This situation explains why employment and numbers affiliated to the Social Security system are increasing at a time when the census of residents is falling. The economic recovery detected since 2014 must not be attractive enough to reactive immigration.
Understanding the Degree of Difference in Return Migration: Bulgaria’s Turkish Minority Returning as Pensioners to the Country
Understanding the Degree of Difference in Return Migration: Bulgaria’s Turkish Minority Returning as Pensioners to the Country
(Understanding the Degree of Difference in Return Migration: Bulgaria’s Turkish Minority Returning as Pensioners to the Country)
- Author(s):Nuri Korkmaz
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Sociology, Migration Studies
- Page Range:69-80
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Return Migration; Turkish Minority; Bulgaria
- Summary/Abstract:In 1989 when the so called big excursion begun the image of Bulgaria changed dramatically in Europe. Assimilationist policies implemented by the Bulgarian Communist Party resulted with the massive expulsion of ethnic Turks. At that time this migration wave was called as “big excursion” by the communists since almost 390.000 Turks left the country for Turkey. In the following years Bulgaria suffered loss of GDP at very large rates and became the land where everyone tried to run away in search of a better future. Late 1990’s and early 2000’s marked new period for the country where the transition to democracy became more solid through the European integration process and resulting with the EU membership. Citizenship rights of the Turks were restored and most of them decided to visit Bulgaria at least as tourists in order to see their houses and birth places again. However, the Turks living in the villages of Rhodope Mountains began to use their houses in Bulgaria as summer residences. Slowly, houses that were abandoned during the 1989 migration were reconstructed and made suitable to live in again. Today, there are many Turks who are pensioners in Turkey and live in Bulgaria during certain period of the year due to the nature and enjoying organic agriculture practices. Their presence in the region contributes to the local economy as it gets very busy during the summer period. Nevertheless, big part of these people are aging, they need special health care facilities in villages and other remote areas which are less accessible than the cities. This paper aims to analyze the situation of returnees among the Turks of Bulgaria and what type of problems they face during this process.
Current Migration of Bulgarians from Albania to Bulgaria: Towards a New Migration Model of the Historical Bulgarian Diaspora
Current Migration of Bulgarians from Albania to Bulgaria: Towards a New Migration Model of the Historical Bulgarian Diaspora
(Current Migration of Bulgarians from Albania to Bulgaria: Towards a New Migration Model of the Historical Bulgarian Diaspora)
- Author(s):Spas Tashev
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Sociology, Migration Studies, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:81-90
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Bulgarians in Albania; Circular and Seasonal Migration; Educational Migration; Gross Domestic Product by Purchasing Power
- Summary/Abstract:The article analyzes the current status of the Bulgarian community in Albania and the ongoing migration processes towards Bulgaria. The author takes the position that Bulgaria should be open to Bulgarians in Albania in any case and at any time, but not to press them to settle in Bulgaria at any cost. The optimal solution is to promote the circular, mainly seasonal migration of Bulgarians from Albania to Bulgaria. In this way, this population will continue to live in its native places, but it may be Bulgaria’s demographic, labor and geopolitical reserve.
Post-Brexit Plans of Bulgarian Citizens in the UK
Post-Brexit Plans of Bulgarian Citizens in the UK
(Post-Brexit Plans of Bulgarian Citizens in the UK)
- Author(s):Eugenia Markova, Ekaterina Tosheva
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Sociology, Migration Studies
- Page Range:91-104
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Bulgarian Migrants; UK; Brexit; Host Labour Market Integration
- Summary/Abstract:This report examines the underlying complexities in the decisions of Bulgarian migrant workers to remain in the UK or leave following Brexit. Based on an online questionnaire survey of 361 Bulgarian citizens working in the UK, comprising migrant employees/entrepreneurs, unemployed and those out of the labour force, in different regions in the UK, different age groups and professions in 2019, the report studies the implications of the Referendum outcome for migrants’ experiences on the UK labour market, including the observable and perceived changes in attitudes of their colleagues, British people, employers and customers, where applicable. The data suggests that gender, age, length of stay in the UK and labour market integration are important determinants of the decision to remain in the UK or leave, either for Bulgaria or another destination.
Bulgarian Return Migrants: Segmentation by Accomplishment of Migration Aims
Bulgarian Return Migrants: Segmentation by Accomplishment of Migration Aims
(Bulgarian Return Migrants: Segmentation by Accomplishment of Migration Aims)
- Author(s):Venelin Boshnakov
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Sociology, Migration Studies, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:105-113
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:Return Migration; Migration Aims; Bulgaria
- Summary/Abstract:The paper presents some preliminary results obtained during the realization of Research Project: “Return Migrants: Segmentation and Stratification of Economic Mobility” (2017-2020) supported by Grant No.DN05/6-14.12.2016 by Bulgarian Science Fund. These results have been derived from a dataset generated by a questionnaire survey among Bulgarian migrants conducted in 2017 after their return – temporary or permanent – to the home country. On the basis of the respondents’ statement that evaluates the achievement of their migration aims, possible interaction is explored between this achievement and the socio-economic profile of the interviewed migrants. For this purpose a binary logistic regression model has been estimated involving demographic, social, economic, and migration experience independent variables. The major results are discussed outlining further directions of a more comprehensive study of the determinants of the achievement of migration goals by return migrants.
Stratification and Social Mobility of Bulgarian Returning Migrants
Stratification and Social Mobility of Bulgarian Returning Migrants
(Stratification and Social Mobility of Bulgarian Returning Migrants)
- Author(s):Andrey Nonchev, Marieta Hristova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Sociology, Migration Studies, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:114-125
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Social Stratification; Socio-ecocnomic Status; Inequalities; Mobility
- Summary/Abstract:The paper explores the social inequalities and mobility of returning migrants. Their social stratification is conceptualized through the concept of their socio-economic status. Different dimensions of the social stratification are examined, with the main focus on economic (income, employment, property), educational and qualification inequalities between returning migrants. The vertical (ascending and descending) economic and social mobility of the remigrants throughout the migration cycle and its individual phases is also traced. The social and economic effects of the migration carried out are analysed through the self-assessments of the return migrants’ financial and social status.
Effects of Workers’ Remittances on the Home Country: The Case of Bulgaria
Effects of Workers’ Remittances on the Home Country: The Case of Bulgaria
(Effects of Workers’ Remittances on the Home Country: The Case of Bulgaria)
- Author(s):Vesselin Mintchev
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Sociology, Migration Studies, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:126-142
- No. of Pages:17
- Keywords:Return Migration; Compensation of Employees; Worker Remittances
- Summary/Abstract:The present report reviews issues, related to the compensation of employees and the workers’ remittances of emigrants. Data based on information from international institutions and from the Bulgarian National Bank, regarding the relative shares of the said pair of items in GDP, is provided. On the basis of information from an empirical sociological study, carried out in 2017 within the framework of the project entitled: “Returning Migrants: Segmentation and Stratification of Economic Mobility” (financed by the Scientific Research Fund of Bulgaria under contract No. DN 05/6 dated 14/12/2016) the profile of individuals supporting their relatives, who remained in home country, is outlined. An answer is sought to the question of what drives the active remittance behaviour of the returning migrants during their stay abroad. Indication is provided of the purposes, for which the remittances are used and the types of businesses they generate.
Returnees’ Reintegration “Back at Home” and Sustainability of Return
Returnees’ Reintegration “Back at Home” and Sustainability of Return
(Returnees’ Reintegration “Back at Home” and Sustainability of Return)
- Author(s):Mihaela Misheva, Antoaneta Getova, Maria Bakalova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Sociology, Migration Studies
- Page Range:143-159
- No. of Pages:17
- Keywords:Reintegration; Return Migration; Sustainability of Return
- Summary/Abstract:The paper focuses on sustainability of return migration within the broader frame of returnees’ reintegration “back at home”. Building on the understanding that it is important to deeply understand how return and reintegration are conceptualized and interconnected, and what they entail both socially and economically, we start with a reflection on current definitions of return and reintegration. Proceeding from the recognition that there is no single type of return or integration, we highlight the crucial importance of reintegration for the sustainability of return. On the basis of this discussion we develop a model for analyzing the linkage between sustainability of return and the reintegration of returnees “back at home”. The model is empirically tested through an index-based tool and data from a national representative survey among return migrants in Bulgaria.
Looking to the Future: The Bulgarian Higher Education System as a Deterrent to Brain Drain
Looking to the Future: The Bulgarian Higher Education System as a Deterrent to Brain Drain
(Looking to the Future: The Bulgarian Higher Education System as a Deterrent to Brain Drain)
- Author(s):Atanas Dimitrov
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Education, Sociology, Higher Education , Migration Studies
- Page Range:160-173
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Brain Drain; Higher Education; Emigration; Ethics Integrity
- Summary/Abstract:The education sector, as many other areas of the public life in Bulgaria, has also been worsened over the course of the 21st century. This is especially visible at the tertiary education level, where poor government decisions, declining number of students and а severe national and international competition resulted in adopting controversial practices among higher education institutions. All this makes foreign universities look all the more attractive to many youth, which contributes to the brain drain from the country. Therefore, the present paper examines existing lacunas and flaws at the tertiary education level by analyzing publicly available documents and data. It then suggests measures aimed at deterring prospective students from studying abroad and respectively from emigrating, while trying to attract Bulgarian emigrants and students abroad to return to Bulgaria to study and consequently work and live in the country.
