A survey conducted by the IOM to determine the trends of migration
among the Egyptian youth has found that the political changes in
the country have only marginally influenced youth’s decision
to migrate.

The survey, which sampled 750 youth who planned to migrate,
found that the most important factor that spurs Egyptian youth to
migrate remains the lack of employment opportunities, security, low
wages and unsatisfactory living conditions. It found that youth who
wished to migrate were more likely to have lost their jobs since
January, when political changes occurred.

Out of 750 questioned, 330 of respondents (44 per cent) had
already decided to migrate before the events of 25th January, and
remained committed to their plans despite the changes; whereas 307
or 41 per cent said the events have only slightly affected their
decision to migrate. Only 112 youth said the current political
changes have made them want to leave Egypt.

Pasquale Lupoli, IOM Regional Representative for the Middle East
said: "Young Egyptian men and women are concerned about access to
jobs, whether in Egypt or abroad. We found that two thirds of
respondents who were working prior to January 25 either lost their
jobs or faced a reduction in pay and working time due to recent
political changes and economic turmoil."

However, despite these findings, the survey showed that the
majority of those who took part have good expectations for the
future political climate and the security of their country,
believing the situation will improve.

According to the official government records, 2.7 million
Egyptians are living abroad, 70 per cent of them in Arab countries
with the remaining 30 per cent scattered in various European and
North American countries.

For more information, please contact:

Abdel Muhsen

IOM Cairo

Tel: +20100004381

or visit : "_blank">www.egypt.iom.int/publications