Determinants of migration and the gravity model of migration – application on Western Balkan emigration flows

Abstract

The main objective of this work is the investigation of the determinants of emigration from the Western Balkans through the well-known gravity theory. We include in the gravity equation three original regressors, associated with typical concerns for the Western Balkans: standard of living, unemployment and corruption. Diagnostic tests indicate a good fit of the estimated model to data. Authorities and policymakers of both developing and developed countries should definitely change the approach in dealing with the phenomenon of migration.  They should implement drastic reforms and concrete measures in order to minimize the number of individuals who leave their country for economic and social reasons.