Migration and Labour Mobility from Kiribati

Abstract

The aim of this Discussion Paper is to provide a summary of past and present migration flows in light of the environmental and developmental challenges faced by Kiribati. In Kiribati, “migration with dignity” is seen as a climate change adaptation strategy that has been promoted at the highest political level. Yet, in contrast to several other Pacific Island countries, there is a lack of migration opportunities for I-Kiribati despite strong migration pressures. Few I-Kiribati have migrated and settled overseas. The National Labour Migration Policy which was adopted in 2015 and is being implemented aims to create an integrated strategy for all stages of the labour migration process. It is a step towards increasing labour migration opportunities and enhancing the benefits from overseas employment.

Keywords: migration, Kiribati, Pacific, climate change, labour

JEL Classification: F22, F66