Navigating Migration Risks: The Role of Risk Perception and Information Engagement Among Moldovans

Abstract

This study examines migration risk perception and information engagement by potential migrants from Moldova. Employing a qualitative interview approach ( N = 30), it explores the behaviors, intentions, and perceptions that underpin how potential migrants understand labor migration risks. It establishes a robust connection between risk perception and the active pursuit of pertinent information. The study offers a matrix that illustrates the interplay between migration risk perception (high vs. low) and type of risk (individual vs. systemic). It finds that respondents in the High Risk — Systemic group refrain from seeking information, viewing all migration as inherently highly risky due to systemic factors beyond their control. The Low Risk — Systemic group believes migration carries relatively low risks, but that these risks are not individually manageable. The Low Risk — Individual group engages passively with safe migration information because of their perception of low risk. The High Risk — Individual group actively seeks information about safe migration, believing that they can overcome potential risks. In short, the study finds that potential migrants’ perception and understanding of risk shapes their engagement with safe migration information. The study also highlights gender disparities in risk perception and response. While women emphasize concerns tied to sexual exploitation and separation from family, men are more likely to fear fatal accidents and industry-specific exploitation. The study’s findings should inform the development of policy frameworks and migration information campaigns that reflect diverse perceptions and understandings of migration risk. Policy Recommendations: To mitigate migration risks and promote safer practices, policymakers at various levels, including the Moldovan government, international agencies (e.g., IOM, UNHCR, and ILO), non-governmental organizations (like LaStrada), and EU bodies, should: Tailor public education and communication campaigns for diverse risk factors, using different messaging for varying risk perceptions. Address gender-specific concerns with practical advice and resources. Develop comprehensive risk awareness programs covering physical, emotional, and psychological challenges. Use diverse channels (hotlines, online platforms, and workshops) to reach a broader audience. Strengthen embassy services, ensuring staff are informed about migration risks, challenges, and effective outreach and education strategies. Collaborate with mental health professionals to provide psychosocial support. Engage returnee migrants as credible sources of information and advice. Include migration topics in school curricula to enhance migration risk preparedness. By acknowledging risk perception and adapting information strategies accordingly, policymakers at international, regional, and local levels can create effective initiatives and communicating strategies for secure migration.

Immobility in Moldova: Beyond the migration paradigm

“…However, this perspective fails to account for the limitations of accessible information, which consistently shapes the boundaries of economic rationality (Bogdan, 2020, Bogdan, 2022de Haas, 2014;Gigerenzer & Selten, 2002). For instance, individuals who receive limited or inaccurate advice regarding migration cannot be labelled as economically irrational actors (Bogdan, 2020(Bogdan, , 2023.…”

“…Instead, it implies that people make decisions based on the information they have at hand, which is constrained by its quality and accuracy (Bogdan, 2022(Bogdan, , 2023.…”

“…State and sociocultural factors, including household dynamics, community influence, cultural norms, religious beliefs and social networks, play a significant role in constraining an individual's potential to independently make migration decisions (Bogdan, 2023;de Haas, 2014). These social aspects fundamentally shape and limit the economic, social and human resources available for individuals to utilize (Bogdan, 2018(Bogdan, , 2023de Haas, 2014).…”

“…These factors provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the nuanced interrelationships surrounding migration decisions (Bogdan, 2018(Bogdan, , 2023. Social class plays a significant role in shaping migration processes, particularly in discussions surrounding who has the capacity to migrate and where they are able to go (Bogdan, 2018;Van Hear, 2014).…”

“…Notably, an influential group of migration scholars has persistently argued that our inability to fully grasp the dynamics of human mobility lies in our failure to contemplate why individuals choose to stay put (see Arango, 2000;De Jong & Fawcett, 1981;De Jong & Gardner, 2013;Hammar et al, 2021). While a handful of scholars have undertaken interdisciplinary inquiries into the factors hindering migration, only a select few have taken a deeper look into these insights (Bogdan, 2023;Schewel, 2019). Surprisingly, despite the compelling call to investigate immobility, scant attention has been directed towards comprehending the decision-making processes of individuals who decide to remain.…”