Brain Drain or Gain: Examining International Migration

As part of the series on "Demographics and Development in the 21st Century," 
Center for Global Development presents  a discussion on
Brain Drain or Gain: Examining International Migration 

Featuring 
David McKenzie
Development Research Group, World Bank

Remarks by 
Michael Clemens
Research Fellow, Center for Global Development

Moderated by 
Rachel Nugent 
Deputy Director for Global Health, Center for Global Development 

Wednesday, May 6, 2009 
4:00pm—5:30pm 
Reception to follow

at 
SEIU Conference Center
1800 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, 
Room 1026/28 (lobby level), Washington, DC 
Closest Metro: Dupont Circle (Red Line) – South Exit 
**Please bring photo identification.** 

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Brain drain has long been seen in developing countries as an undesirable consequence of migration. This concern is amplified by the recent increase in skilled emigration as some developed countries orient their immigration policies to embrace higher-skilled workers. Economic theory suggests a range of possible benefits and costs to sending countries from skilled emigration, but the evidence base is very limited. David McKenzie presents unique survey work conducted with John Gibson tracking worldwide the best and brightest academic performers from three Pacific countries. McKenzie's presentation draws on the Tonga experience, describing the impact of skilled migration on the country, including fiscal and demographic implications.