Family migration is a critical global phenomenon, yet surprisingly, there isn’t a comprehensive worldwide database to accurately track it across all nations. This significant gap in data is largely due to the lack of resources and infrastructure in many developing countries to effectively gather, process, and distribute information related to family migration. Even when data does exist, inconsistencies in data collection methods and frameworks make it difficult to combine and analyze information from different sources.
Our understanding of recent shifts in family migration patterns and the effects of migration policies on these patterns remains limited. Despite the availability of some family migration data in certain parts of the world, a robust and up-to-date evidence base concerning the socio-economic and demographic characteristics of family migrants is lacking. For instance, in countries like the United States, detailed surveys exploring the socio-demographic profiles of family migrants are outdated, with the most recent data originating from the early 2000s.
Statistics derived solely from administrative records offer an incomplete view of family migration flows. While administrative data, such as population registers and residence permit issuances, can provide estimates, they often count administrative events rather than individual migrants. For example, if a single permit covers an entire family, the number of permits issued doesn’t directly translate to the number of family migrants. Some countries are working to improve data quality by integrating different data sources, such as surveys and administrative records, to gain a more accurate picture of migration.
Information on transnational families, where family members live in different countries, is particularly scarce. Despite the growing prevalence of these family arrangements in today’s interconnected world, our knowledge about their scale and dynamics within migration contexts is still limited. Evidence-based policies are crucial to ensure that when a family member migrates, it doesn’t lead to hardship and suffering for those left behind. Addressing these data gaps is essential for developing effective support systems and policies for transnational families.
Finally, data on family emigration – families leaving their home countries – is also incomplete. This is often due to countries lacking the capacity or political will to collect such data. This lack of information hinders policymakers’ ability to create effective policies that facilitate family emigration processes and support families seeking to build new lives abroad. Improving data collection in this area is vital for creating humane and effective migration policies.
