Emigration from Latvia: Recent trends and economic impact

This chapter examines the substantial outflows of population from Latvia since 2000, which has major implications for the demography and development of Latvia as well as its social security system. Different statistical sources are described and compared. The chapter examines the characteristics of emigrants relative to the resident population, in terms of education, age, employment experience and income. The chapter examines the relationship between growth and emigration, as well as emigration potential, exploring the role of non-economic factors. The changing characteristics of emigrants from Latvia are discussed. The current and future impact of emigration on the labour market is examined. The chapter concludes by indicating some means for alleviating negative impact.