The relationship between migration and development is increasingly understood, but how migration affects development outcomes remains under-explored. We know that a lack of opportunities and investment in origin countries can drive migration. But we also know that migration can improve development and investment in origin countries, fill labour gaps and foster innovation in destination countries, and can contribute to development along the journey (or, in ‘transit countries’). It can be an effective poverty reduction tool – not just for migrants themselves, but also for their families and wider communities.

Migration can therefore help achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (2030 Agenda). But we also know that migration can negatively impact development. To address this, we need to understand the impact of migration on the achievement of all Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and – equally – the impact this achievement will have on future migration patterns. That is what this interactive tool, and the accompanying briefings, show.

As Member States and international institutions are starting to discuss how to implement the Global Compact for Migration (GCM), it is more important than ever to understand these links and their implications for policy.

To explore how migration affects development, click on either a Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) around the outside of the wheel, or a critical development issue inside the wheel.

This interactive tool is based on two years of research into the links between migration and development.