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Involuntary migration and mobility barriers are a global risk

Global experts and leaders consider "involuntary migration" as a top risk to the world over the next decade, according to the World Economic Forum's 2022 Global Risk Report. The finding is based on the views of almost 1,000 experts and leaders surveyed in the Global Risks Perception Survey (GRPS).

According to the report, 60 per cent of the GRPS respondents perceived “migration and refugees” as an area where international mitigation efforts are falling short because they have either “not started” or are in “early development.” Key drivers of "involuntary migration" include growing economic hardship, the impact of climate change, conflict and political instability.

Compounding the risks associated with involuntary migration are the increasing barriers to mobility. People may be compelled to migrate or move but barriers to mobility may prevent them from doing so. According to the report, there are three main potential future barriers to cross-border migration: pandemic-related border restrictions, automation and the changing nature of work which will affect the demand for migrant workers, and more restrictive national migration policies.

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