Second Generation Return Migrants: The New Face of Brain Circulation in the Caribbean?

Abstract

The research on migration patterns has generally focused on the implications of mass movements of people from sending countries in the global South to receiving countries in the global North. The experiences and impact on sending countries such as developing nations in Caribbean region have been largely overlooked due to their small populations.

Starting in the post-World War II era, tens of thousands of labour migrants left the Caribbean in search of economic prosperity. But an increasing number are now returning to their homeland. The potential for these migrants to represent a significant return flow to the Caribbean is not insignificant. Among the returnees is a small cohort of highly skilled second generation immigrants. The premise is that return migration takes place not only among first generation immigrants but also their children who were born or raised abroad.

This thesis explores the contribution that these second generation return migrants are making to Caribbean migration patterns, and their potential to contribute economically and socially to the region. The research is based on an extensive review of literature on return migration as well as focused data collection from 18 second generation return migrants to various countries in the Caribbean. Collectively, this mix-method approach culminates in a migration narrative that suggests that second generation return migrants are poised to become an ever more important group of return migrants to the Caribbean.

This narrative has important implications for CARICOM governments. Where once the loss of the best minds from the region was reason for concern, now there is a potential for the Caribbean to benefit from the investments made to the North. There is new reason for CARICOM governments to put in place tailored policies that attract young pre-retirement professionals with much to offer the region. While efforts to entice the return of wealthy retirees have born some positive results, perhaps CARICOM governments could recognize and facilitate the return of second generation immigrants to the region.