Regional migration, growth and convergence

Abstract

"This paper empirically analyses the question of how regional migration affects regional convergence and growth in post-reunification Germany. Addressing the endogeneity of migration and human capital, a dynamic panel data model within the framework of ß-convergence is applied, accounting for spatial effects. The regressions indicate that out-migration has a negative but modest effect on regional growth; the expected effect of skill selection is only partly confirmed. In the East German subsample, in-migration increases growth independently of its human capital effect; in West Germany, in-migration lowers growth per se, but this negative impact is offset by the growth-stimulating forces of migrants' skills." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

Cite article

Kubis, A. & Schneider, L. (2016): Regional migration, growth and convergence. A spatial dynamic panel model of Germany. In: Regional Studies. Journal of the Regional Studies Association, Vol. 50, No. 11, p. 1789-1803. DOI:10.1080/00343404.2015.1059932