Methodology

DEMIG's conceptual goal is to advance general migration theory by (1) re-conceptualising migration processes and (2) providing empirical tests for migration theory by exploring the complex links between human development, the role of states, policy and migration flows.

DEMIG is built around four theoretical and empirical project components:

• Elaboration of a comprehensive theoretical framework on the multi-level forces driving migration processes - by synthesising separately evolved theories on sending or receiving countries, labour or non-labour, and ‘voluntary’ and ‘forced’ migration from various disciplines (part I).

• Review and categorisation of receiving and sending country migration policies, enabling an improved operationalisation of contextual and, particularly, policy variables (part II).

• Empirical tests of hypotheses derived in parts I and II, applying a double comparative, longitudinal design enabling simultaneous tests of the effects of sending and receiving country contextual and policy effects on migration flows (part III).

• Creation of a longitudinal database compiling bilateral (country to country) migration flow and policy data over the 1950-2010 period.

For general queries or if you wish to receive regular updates on DEMIG research and activities, send an email to DEMIG@qeh.ox.ac.uk. For updated project information, visit the project's website www.migrationdeterminants.eu