The migration of Iranians to different countries has become a serious issue in recent years. If once only the youth thought about leaving the country, now this concern has reached various segments of society, and many are seeking a better future.
Migratory Advertisements and Societal Realities
Migratory advertisements in Iran have significantly increased. Now, there are not only signs of migration ads in the streets and on walls, but virtual pages are also filled with advertisements promising a better life in various countries. From Turkey and Georgia to European countries like Germany and France, we encounter ads everywhere telling us that we can start a new life.
According to a study conducted in 2023 titled "Report on Iranian Migration: Causes and Motivations," only 16 percent of respondents answered negatively to the question of whether they had considered migration. Meanwhile, Seyyed Reza Salehi Amiri, the Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance in Hassan Rouhani's government, reported in 2024 that the desire to migrate had increased to 60 percent.
Reasons for Iranian Migration
Various factors have contributed to the increased desire for migration. War, economic crisis, scientific limitations, and sanctions have all acted as push factors, prompting youth and elites to consider leaving the country. Specifically, according to statistics from "AmarFact," the population of Iranian migrants reached 1 million and 870 thousand in 2020, which is double the number over the past 30 years.
In this context, studies show that the desire to migrate is higher among individuals under 29 years old and those with higher education. Reports indicate that 45 percent of individuals under 29 and 55 percent of those with higher education are inclined to migrate. This inclination is clearly more pronounced in Tehran than in rural areas.
Challenges and New Opportunities
Mahmoud Moshfegh, an associate professor in the Department of Demography at Allameh Tabatabai University, believes that the issue of migration is not solely dependent on internal conditions, as global regulations also influence it. He emphasizes that migration is divided into voluntary and forced categories, and economic conditions can increase the desire to migrate, but when financial resources are lacking, taking action to migrate becomes difficult.
In fact, Moshfegh stresses that an increased desire to migrate does not mean that individuals can easily take action. Currently, given the economic conditions, sanctions, and the challenges Iranians face abroad, the desire to migrate does not translate into action. He also points to the prevalence of migration in recent years, stating that migration has now become a common phenomenon.
This issue indicates that while migration can be a way to escape problems, it also has its own specific challenges. Ultimately, the question remains whether migration will continue to be seen as a choice or a necessity for building a better future.
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