Discuss the role of migration in any European region you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 21 - 2010

Internal migration within Poland has been driven by economic opportunities, with many individuals moving from rural areas to cities such as Warsaw and Wrocław. This movement is aimed at seeking better employment prospects and living standards, contributing to urbanization and economic development in these cities.

Conversely, Poland has also seen a significant outflow of migrants, particularly to Western Europe. Factors include higher wages and improved living conditions abroad. This trend has implications such as brain drain, where the country loses skilled labor, but it also allows for remittances sent back home, supporting local economies.

For example, studies have shown that after Poland joined the EU, there was a marked increase in migration to the UK and Germany. Data from the Polish government indicates that over 2 million Poles live abroad, highlighting the scale of this migration. Additionally, graphs illustrating urban population growth in Polish cities can demonstrate the effects of internal migration.

Overall, migration has played a vital role in shaping the demographic and economic landscape of Poland. It has facilitated economic growth through urbanization while posing challenges such as the loss of skilled professionals and the need for social integration of returnees and foreign migrants.