What is a major factor that drives migration?

Economic opportunity is a major factor that drives migration because individuals and families often seek better employment prospects and improved living conditions in different regions or countries. When people perceive that they have limited job opportunities, low wages, or poor economic conditions in their home areas, they are motivated to move to places where they can find work that pays better, provides more job security, or offers career advancement. This drive for economic improvement is a primary reason for both internal migration (within a country) and international migration.

While political stability, technological advancement, and climate change can also influence migration, they often do so in indirect or supporting roles. Political stability can attract migrants who are looking for a safe place to live; however, it is usually the economic opportunities that are most enticing. Technological advancement may enable easier migration or create new job markets, but it does not itself motivate individuals to leave their homes. Climate change can force migration due to environmental factors, yet individuals often flee these situations searching for better economic conditions rather than solely escaping the adverse environment. Thus, economic opportunity stands out as a direct and powerful driver of migration decisions.