Hopes in Transit: How Economic Woes and Gender Roles Shape Youth Migration Dreams in Sri Lanka.

Abstract

In recent years, the migration of individuals in Sri Lanka has encountered a significant gap, especially among Gen Zs aged between 18 and 28 years as of 2024. This study seeks to comprehensively examine the psychological factors caused by economic uncertainty that determine the migration intentions of young Sri Lankans. While prior research often focused on broad socio-economic and political drivers, this study examines the specific psychological effects of inflation, unemployment, and financial insecurity. This study used a qualitative technique, conducting 26 one-on-one, semi-structured interviews with Sri Lankan Gen Z participants selected through convenience sampling. While female participants often emphasised financial independence, dissatisfaction with economic struggles, and freedom from societal constraints, men tended to highlight economic aspirations, financial independence and career growth. Both males and females experience stress, dissatisfaction, and insecurity in their local employment environments. This research provides original insights by integrating psychological influences on migration decisions specific to the Gen Z cohort in Sri Lanka. The implications of the study are significant for policymakers, educational institutions, migration agencies, etc., who aim to understand and respond to the motivations of Gen Z migration. By identifying these psychosocial drivers, targeted strategies can be developed to retain talented Gen Z and address the root causes of migration intentions in the country.