Historical and Theoretical Perspectives on Migration in Guyana

The small South American nation of Guyana has been subject to significant migration patterns both prior to and following its attainment of independence in the year 1966. There are periods when the country was a large recipient of immigrants as well as a large sender of emigrants. For the most part, the net migration rate has always been negative, and in fact, reached its highest point in the 1980s. This chapter therefore explores the push–pull factors associated with historical migration patterns, as well as the costs and benefits this has had on the Guyanese economy. Migration patterns have shifted in recent periods, much more so post-2015 following the discovery of oil. The country has seen an increased inflow of migrants from neighboring countries. The chapter therefore interrogates current issues associated with migration and concludes by proposing policy implications for effectively managing migration.