13.02.2018. » 12:59 | ACDC
OP-ED MIGRATION AS A KOSOVO PHENOMENON
OP-ED ARTICLE MIGRATION AS A KOSOVO PHENOMENON
MIGRATION AS A KOSOVO PHENOMENON
By definition migration is movement by people from one place to another with the intentions of settling, permanently or temporarily in a new location. In spite of the fact that majority of migrants live and work legally in host countries, migration could also be a source of political tensions and human tragedies. Desperate people are putting their lives at risk to enter countries where they face suspicion and abuse.
That bring us to the people of Western Balkans where migrating to the Western Europe presents long-standing livelihood strategy for almost every young man. Disappointed with the grim economic situation in their impoverished home places, with low possibilities of employment and decent wages, young people search for possibilities to go abroad and make their lives easier.
Migration of people from Kosovo during 2014 and 2015 to European countries can be understood in the context of the poor performance of the government and lack of values in its policies. Increased accountability and performance of Kosovo’s institutions would increase the quality of life of Kosovo citizens as well as their overall satisfaction with Kosovo’s institutions.
But that is not the only reason that makes people migrate. Being aware of advanced education that could be acquired in other countries younger people choose to study abroad. On the other hand, lack of the agreement on visa liberalization is worsening their position. Long procedure for getting necessary documents that should be submitted in order to get student visa issued, short duration of visa and many other problems that young people face sometimes seem like insurmountable barrier.
When it comes to the labor force, as the returnees talk, the easiest way to get job in Germany is to be medical worker. That reflected to the number of students in medical schools and medical faculty. Possibilities for job abroad by being nurse or doctor significantly increased number of applicant for these educative institutions.
Different programs organized primarily by US but also other European countries enable student to go and study abroad, unfortunately not everyone, but only shortlisted, chosen by different criteria. Those who get to foreign schools and universities through different programs, almost always have a condition to spend some time in Kosovo, once studies are over. Being well educated with their return they could be of great importance for Kosovo.
Unfortunately, both students and other returnees after return to Kosovo face many difficulties in the sense of re-integration. The most important barrier to improving livelihoods and smooth re-integration is the labor market situation.
In spite of different programs led by reputable international organization providing reintegration assistance, the number of migrant is way higher that the number of returnees.
Unfortunately there is no accurate information on number of migrants or returnees, and it is very difficult to get accurate statistic data.
The conclusion is that leaving the country is still the primary goal of most young people-so politicians think about the future!
Written by: Daniela Tomasevic
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