If you’ve seen the Neflix nature documentary series Our Planet, you know that millions of earth’s animals embark on awe-inspiring journeys. Birds fly thousands of miles to escape the cold. Wildebeests trek across Africa for greener pastures. And whales glide through oceans in search of food. Migration is a natural instinct in the animal kingdom. It’s part of life. And, when you really think about it, it’s a fundamental part of being human too.
This is why the United Nations proclaimed today, December 18, as International Migrants Day, back in 1990. It’s the day the world recognizes the resilience and contributions of the millions of people who, like nature’s most determined travelers, cross borders for a better life. After all, the decistion to leave one’s home isn’t just about surviving. It’s about thriving.
From sending billions of dollars home to their families, to shaping the cultures and economies of their new communities, migrants have a huge impact that goes far beyond borders. So, what does migration look like in today’s world? Here we 10 eye-opening facts about migration that you might not know.
10 Eye-opening Facts about Migration
Migrants are more than statistics. They’re neighbors, coworkers, and family members. They navigate borders and cultures, and enrich their new communities. On International Migrants Day, we honor their stories and advocate for fair policies to ensure they thrive wherever they go.
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As the UN reminds us, “migration is a powerful driver of sustainable development.” The organization’s goal is to work toward a world where everyone can move with dignity and opportunity. So, to understand the world’s current state of migration, I’ve gathered 10 Facts about migration, from a variety of internationally-recognized sources:
- Around 281 million people, or 3.6 percent of the world’s population, are international migrants.
- The top three destinations for migrants are the United States, Germany, and Saudi Arabia.
- In 2022, migrants sent $53 billion in remittances to Mexico alone, making it the second-largest recipient after India (World Bank).
- Up to 75 percent of all migrants are of working age (20-64), fueling global economies (IOM).
- The number of displaced people globally has reached 114 million, including refugees and asylum seekers.
- Women make up 48 percent of all migrants, often facing unique challenges in labor and legal rights.
- The top three reasons people leave their homes are conflict, persecution and human rights violations.
- In 2023, climate-related events displaced 43 million people, underscoring the growing link between migration and the climate crisis.
- Migrants are twice as likely to start businesses as native-born populations, boosting job creation.
- Migration is a key driver of cultural exchange, with traditions like Día de los Muertos and cuisines like tacos and dumplings now celebrated worldwide.
Sources: The UN Migration Agency (IOM), the World Bank, the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), and OECD Migration Policy Debates.
