Bishkek – On October 15, the Ministry of Labour, Social Security, and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic, together with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), will present the results of the assessment of migration trends based on the Mobility Tracking Matrix (MTM).

The MTM dissemination workshop aims to present the findings from the regular Baseline Mobility Assessment and the Returned Migrant Survey, which are components of the MTM. Since 2022, three MTM rounds have been carried out, and the fourth round is currently in progress.

Findings from the Baseline Mobility Assessment indicate an increase in return migration between 2020 and April 2024, reflecting a major shift in migration patterns. Specifically, in 2023, the number of returned migrants soared by 85% compared to the previous year. The Osh, Chui, and Batken regions have recorded the highest numbers of returned migrants. Concurrently, the latest survey of returned migrants revealed that the proportion of migrant workers planning to migrate back to the country they returned from has reduced by half, and 16% of respondents are uncertain about their future opportunities.

Apart from assessing returned migrants, MTM also provides data on emigrants, international migrants, and internal migrants.

Migration data is essential for understanding the complex dynamics of population movement and its effects on societies and economies. Comprehensive migration data plays a pivotal role in guiding policy decisions that shape the future of communities, economic development, and international relations.

Aligned with the National Action Plan for 2022-2025 of the Concept of Migration Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic for 2021-2030, MTM reports enhance the use of empirical data on migration issues.

The dissemination workshop is part of “Labour Migration Programme – Central Asia”, supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), and “Regional Evidence for Migration Analysis and Policy (REMAP)” Project, supported by the European Union.