Abstract

The study explores the migration trends of Iraqi Kurdish graduates and dropouts, emphasizing their aspirations to move illegally to Europe. It identifies key push and pull factors driving this migration, such as economic challenges, political instability, educational shortcomings, and mental health concerns. The study uses qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with young adults aged 18-25. The findings highlight a significant 'brain drain' as skilled individuals leave for better opportunities, impacting the region's development. The paper underscores the urgent need for policy interventions to improve local economic opportunities, education standards, and political stability, as these are crucial to addressing the migration issue.

Introduction

Migration, a pressing issue driven by various factors aimed at improving living conditions, including economic, social, political, and environmental variables, is particularly urgent in Iraq, especially the Kurdistan Region (KRI). Here, migration is influenced by economic disparities, educational system inefficiencies, and political instability. The research problem focuses on the high cost and danger of illegal migration despite the lack of opportunities and stability in Iraq. The research question addresses graduates' perceptions of the push and pull factors informing their intention to migrate.

Literature Review

The review covers migration trends among university graduates and dropouts, highlighting the push and pull factors influencing their decisions. Key factors include:

• Political Instability: Iraq's political upheaval, corruption, and insecurity drive migration.
• Education: The declining quality of education and lack of alignment with job market demands contribute to dissatisfaction among graduates.
• Economic Opportunities and Concerns: High unemployment and low income, particularly in the KRI, are significant push factors.
• Mental Health: Economic hardships and lack of opportunities impact mental health, driving migration.
• Quality of Life and Standard of Living: Europe is perceived to offer better living conditions and opportunities.
• Youth Perceptions: Young people's perceptions of opportunities abroad versus the reality of conditions in Iraq influence migration decisions.

Methodology

The research uses exploratory qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews with 15 participants aged 18-25. This approach allows for an in-depth understanding of the factors influencing migration decisions. Data collection involved respectful and standardized interviews, ensuring participants' privacy and consent.

Findings and Discussion

The findings reveal that multiple push and pull factors influence the decision to migrate:

• Push Factors: Political instability, poor educational quality, lack of economic opportunities, and mental health concerns.
• Pull Factors: Job opportunities, better mental health care, higher quality of life, and perceived stability in Europe.

Participants' profiles and detailed accounts highlight the challenges and motivations behind their migration decisions. Many face disappointment and hardships in Europe, questioning the reality versus their expectations.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The study concludes that the significant brain drain in Iraq requires comprehensive policy interventions to retain talent. Recommendations include creating employment opportunities through public-private partnerships, revamping educational institutions, and implementing political reforms to stabilize the region. The research contributes to the broader migration debate, providing policymakers with insights into the root causes and potential solutions for migration from Iraq and the KRI.

Overall, the paper provides a thorough analysis of the complex factors driving Iraqi Kurdish graduates to migrate illegally to Europe, emphasizing the need for targeted policy interventions to address the underlying issues.