Cyclical Migration-The Albanian Case

Abstract

This paper has the goal to analyze the migration phenomenon in Albania that in a really short time has brought abroad about a quarter of the population , paying a special attention to the study of the remittances sent home by the migrant workers and the impact produced from these cash flows on the social and economic development of Albania . The connection between migration, remittances and development is set up as a topic of considerable analytical interest that has also taken part a central position in the international theoretical debate. Actually it is noticed the circularity that characterizes the current migration dynamics that emphasizes the positive value that comes out from the construction of social and economic ties between the places of origin, transit and destination of migrants. It stems a very active role of the diaspora who becomes a subject who brings opportunities for development and innovation for the origin place. The double belonging of migrants to the society of arrival and departure is the element that supports the creation of social practices for the promotion of new development initiatives. It is in this framework that the sending of remittances , as well as the transfer of ideas , knowledge, skills , sometimes even by the return ( physical or virtual , temporary or permanent ) at home , serve to improve the living conditions ,by launching numerous business activities that strengthen the local production sector and also by the investment in social projects from which benefits the entire community. During the paper, it will be demonstrate the validity of the argument that remittances generate development in the native context of the migrants. Migration is therefore not to be considered as a net loss to the countries of origin, but rather should be seen as an important resource to be reassessed, which gives autonomy to migrants in the claim of the individual right to exist. Investigating the potential of remittances in the development process, the analysis will be focused on the specific situation in Albania;followed by two empirical studies to spot the characteristic trend of departures and returns of Albanian migrants. The result is the increased social responsibility of migrants to their origin country that makes it possible, through the transfer of human, financial and social capital at home, spreading information, competences and professionalism.