Study of Sri Lankan Skilled Migrant Workers in Australia: Special Reference to Economic Impacts on Sri Lanka

Abstract

In the world, in a lot of developing countries’ people tend to migrate because of push and pull factors. Especially skilled migrants tend to migrate to another developed country because of the economic benefits and life satisfaction. As a country Sri Lanka is still developing country and Sri Lankan skilled workers tend to migrate to developed countries such as Europe, USA, New Zealand and Australia. When considering about Sri Lankan trends in migration, Australia has become a popular destination for Sri Lankan Migrants, mainly skilled migrants. Sri Lankan immigrants are the 13th largest overseas-born group in Australia and their movement to Australia has a long history. It has become increasingly complex. Skilled migration creates so many negative and positive impacts on the country. The study is focused on how Sri Lankan skilled migrant workers in Australia impact on Sri Lankan economy. When considering about economic impact of skilled migration, the study mainly focuses on brain drain. Furthermore migration of the professionals affects the fields of health, education and development. Other intellectual migration, such as engineers, scientists and experts, also affects the country's development. Sri Lankan health sector is largely hit by the brain drain. Shortages of doctors in Sri Lanka due to their migration can be seen Annually Sri Lanka produces considerable amount of doctors, but lots of them are finding employment abroad. That would be a huge effect for economic development of Sri Lanka. This research is entirely based on secondary data since only secondary data will be analyzed using content analysis and the research assumes a qualitative approach. Research objectives will be achieved through several theories, approaches and concepts, especially through international migration theories