The human consequences of involuntary immobility

Large numbers of young people around the world, particularly in developing countries, wish to migrate but lack the capacity to do so. This phenomenon has been called “involuntary immobility” and may pose important challenges for human development. This project main objective is to understand the reasons and consequences of involuntary immobility in Senegal and how it relates to socio-economic development. The project’s empirical focus is southern Senegal, more precisely Ziguinchor, Kolda and two neighbouring villages, here previous research has shown that migration aspirations tend to be high and capabilities to do so low. Field research will take place in three locations within the Casamance area each one representing different levels of livelihood opportunities, migration aspirations and involuntary immobility. Field research will take place in two separate moments in time, one during the first semester of 2024 and then at the end of 2025.