Sociologist Youssouf Daouda Labot, discusses the factors driving migration in Africa, as well as the various issues surrounding this phenomenon across the continent. He also emphasises the efforts that policymakers must undertake to make this age-old, inherently human phenomenon safer. In this interview with Dialogue Migration, conducted in northern Benin, in a region characterised by substantial migration between Benin, Nigeria, Niger, Burkina Faso and Togo, he provides recommendations for States and potential migrants, aiming to facilitate safer and more humane mobility for all.

In Africa, the “pull” factors include the search for better economic, employment and educational opportunities, as well as the perception of political stability and security in certain destination countries. The “push” (repulsion) factors are mainly shaped by negative conditions in countries of origin, such as poverty, unemployment, armed conflict, political instability, rural underdevelopment, environmental degradation and a lack of freedoms or opportunities, all of which compel people to migrate.

Push factors (factors of departure)

Negative elements, such as these in the country of origin, drive people to leave.

• Economic factors

Poverty, unemployment, low wages, lack of economic opportunities and rural underdevelopment.

• Political and security factors

Armed conflicts, wars, political repression, instability, violence, persecution and a lack of freedom and safety.

• Environmental factors

Climate change, natural disasters and environmental degradation, which affect people’s livelihoods.

• Social factors:

Low social status, lack of access to basic services and discrimination.

Pull factors (attraction factors)

These positive aspects of destination countries or regions attract migrants:

• Economic factors

The hope of finding better-paid jobs, career opportunities and greater prosperity.

• Social and educational factors

Access to better educational opportunities, quality healthcare, stronger social protection and established diasporic communities.

• Political and security factors

The search for political stability, safety, freedom of expression and better legal protections.

• Family factors

Family reunification and joining relatives who are already settled abroad.

Interaction of factors

It is important to note that “push” and “pull” factors are inextricably linked.Migration is a complex phenomenon in which individuals or families make the decision to leave based on their environment, perceptions and understanding of the opportunities and constraints in  their country of origin and their destination.