New trends on return and remigration in the COVID era? Evidence from Bangladesh and Pakistan January

This trend assessment is part of an ongoing series launched by ICMPD’s Policy, Research and Strategy Directorate. These assessments analyse emerging trends related to the field of migration based on expert opinions and ICMPD’s knowledge and insight on the subject in the context of changing geopolitical situations and external shocks that may influence existing trends of migration. In this vein, this study assesses the impact of COVID-19 on migration flows from Pakistan and Bangladesh, especially exploring the potential of an increased trend of irregular flows towards Europe. The two countries are not only among the top sending countries for labour migration in the West and South Asian (Silk Routes) Region, but are also among the top in the list of countries of origin with highest irregular migrant detections in Europe. In this context, it has been identified as relevant to examine how COVID-19 may influence migration flows from Pakistan and Bangladesh with respect to regular and irregular migration, specifically with an inquiry into migration trends foreseen towards Europe