Young people lead emigration intentions in Cape Verde, according to a study by Afrosondagem
A survey by Afrosondagem reveals that 64% of Cape Verdeans consider emigrating in search of job opportunities, with a focus on young people (76%) and the unemployed (82%). Europe is the main destination, but the study also highlights divisions over immigration in the country.
A recent study by Afrosondagem on the quality of democracy and governance in Cape Verde revealed that 64% of Cape Verdeans consider emigrating, with the search for employment opportunities being the main reason.
According to José Semedo, Director-General of Afrosondagem, the percentage of people intending to emigrate rose from 57% in 2017, before the COVID-19 pandemic, to 64% in 2024. The 18 to 35 age group stands out in this movement, with 76% of young people expressing an interest in leaving the country. The rate is even higher among the unemployed looking for work, reaching 82%.
Semedo stressed that the trend encompasses all ages and levels of education, but the desire to find employment is the main factor driving this widespread intention to emigrate. In addition, 75% of employed individuals have also considered emigrating.
Men are more likely to emigrate than women, with 70% of men interested, compared to 59% of women. Among urban residents, 65% are considering emigrating, while in rural areas the percentage is 60%.
Europe remains the most desired destination, chosen by 61% of those interviewed, followed by the United States, preferred by 28%.
The study also addressed opinions on immigration in Cape Verde. There was a division among respondents: 34% believe the country should receive fewer immigrants, 25% support receiving more, and 16% prefer to maintain current levels. “We are a country marked by emigration, but we have some reservations about immigration,” said Semedo.
Regarding the emigration of young people in recent years, 27% of participants consider the phenomenon to be a "mass exodus". On the other hand, 67% believe that this migration benefits the destination countries, especially in Europe and the United States.
The survey, part of the 10th Afrobarometer/Afrosondagem study, was carried out with 1,200 interviewees on the islands of Santiago, São Vicente, Santo Antão and Fogo, covering more than 85% of the Cape Verdean population.
