Content and Objectives

This project examines reasons for migration, the socio-demographic characteristics of internal migrants, and the impact of internal migration on regional demographic development. One core aspect is the study of migration between urban and rural areas and the impact this has on regional development.

The spatial patterns of internal migration in Germany since reunification are analysed using population register data. The educational, occupational and family-related reasons for migration are analysed, and the socio-demographic characteristics of the migrant population investigated, using the microcensus and panel data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP).

Furthermore, the project analyses the age, education and household structure of the internal migration flows and how they change over time. It also highlights the effects of internal migration of special socio-demographic groups on the population development of the regions experiencing in- and out-flows. The migration statistics and the microcensus serve as the data bases in this context. Furthermore, international comparisons of internal migration patterns and reasons for migration are planned.