Migration, Technology Diffusion and Institutional Development at the Origin

This chapter considers several mechanisms through which international migration can influence institutional development at the country of origin. Migration can promote institutional reform, and sound political and economic institutions are necessary to realize the potential growth and development gains from migration. We also highlight the neglected but crucial role migrants play in the worldwide diffusion of innovative ideas and technologies. The analysis reveals a positive relationship between inventor migration and international scientific collaboration, which can arise from the circulation of knowledge within diaspora knowledge networks.