Factors that Contribute to Illegal Migration in Kobo Woreda, North Wollo Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study was conducted on illegal migration in Kobo Woreda of the Amhara
Regional State, Ethiopia. Data were collected using in-depth and key info rmant
interviews. A total of 22 individuals (13 direct and 9 indirect) participated in the
study. The direct participants were potential migrants whereas the indirect
participants were parents/spouses of the potential migrants. Data revealed that the
two major factors that contribute to illegal migration include push and pull
factors, and f ailure in the process of legal migration. Some of the specific push
factors include unemployment, not doing well in education, and insufficient farm
land. Similarly the pull factors are attractive salary, freedom of movement and less
work load in the destination countries. In conclusion, there is no knowledge gap
among the participants that come from different social and demographic
background concerning the risk of illegal migration. The study calls for further
research, advocacy, policy discussion and curricula revision in the
education system to include lessons on migration.