Democratic Drain: Migration and Democratic Deconsolidation

• In Event: Crossroads of Change: How Migration, Aging, and Fertility Reshape Nations

Abstract

In this paper, we argue that migration creates a ‘Democratic Drain’, whereby citizens with democratic tendencies are more likely to migrate, depleting pro-democratic sentiment in their countries of origin. Leveraging global surveys, we show that citizens with democratic tendencies are more likely to express a desire to migrate. Additionally, we show that democratically deconsolidating elections are associated with an increase in migration intentions, particularly among citizens concerned about the state of democracy in their countries. Our findings suggest that democratic backsliding depletes countries of some of their most democratically committed citizens, potentially contributing to a self-reinforcing cycle of democratic erosion.

Author

• Justin Gest, George Mason University
  Presenting Author