Migration and Development in Romania: An Aspirations-Capabilities Approach to Romanian Migration

Stefana-Maria Vizman

Abstract:

Despite significant development since the fall of the communist regime in 1989, migration rates from Romania to the West remain consistently high. This paper adopts an aspirations-capabilities approach to analyse how development leads to changing ideas of a good life among three Romanian migrant groups – practically educated, higher educated, and students. It argues that transformations in five social dimensions – political, economic, demographic, technological, and cultural – alter ideas of a ‘good life’ in Romania. The findings indicate three distinct understandings of a good life which are better pursued abroad. Practically educated migrants aspire to pursue more financially stable lives abroad. Higher-educated migrants leave Romania in search of more flexible employment opportunities where they can develop professionally and contribute to the wellbeing of their communities. Lastly, students migrate both due to better educational opportunities abroad and also as a result of an inherent desire to explore the world. Ultimately, the study realises an image of migration as an integral part of larger social transformation processes.

Vizman_2025_Migration and Development in Romania.pdf

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