Causes of internal migration: With special reference to temporary migrants from Jaffna to Mannar in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Internal migration, defined as the movement of individuals within national borders, is a global phenomenon shaped by economic, social, and environmental determinants. This study aimed to identify the causes of internal temporary migration from Jaffna to Mannar, Sri Lanka. This research has employed a mixed-method research design. For this study, six schools from the Mannar Zone in Mannar District were selected using purposive sampling. A total of 56 teachers from these schools were also selected using purposive sampling to participate in the research. Primary data were collected through 56 self-administered questionnaires, 10 case studies, and key informant interviews. Secondary data were sourced from scholarly literature, books, and relevant websites. Quantitative data from the questionnaires were analysed using descriptive statistics with SPSS version 21, while qualitative data from case studies and the key informant interviews were thematically analysed. Research ethics were strictly followed throughout the study. Findings showed that pull factors (78.1%) were more influential than push factors (21.9%) in motivating migration. Hinduism was the predominant religion among respondents, who mostly belonged to the 25-30 age group. The majority were young, unmarried females holding university degrees. Over 66% reported a monthly income exceeding 40,000 Sri Lankan Rupees. Key pull factors attracting migrants to Mannar included political freedom (59.7%), Natural beauty of the environment (43.4%), job opportunities (42.1%), better living conditions (33.6%), better medical care (33.9%), religious freedom (33%), and a sense of unity (33%). Conversely, significant push factors from Jaffna included political insecurity (60%), insufficient job opportunities (53.3%), primitive living conditions (55.6%), social tension (40%), limited hospital accessibility (38.1%), and loss of peace (35.7%). The study concludes that internal temporary migration in this context is predominantly driven by favourable conditions at the destination rather than pressures at the origin. It recommends that policy efforts should prioritise improving working conditions, school environments, and access to essential services in Jaffna and Mannar, to address the root causes of teacher migration, facilitate smoother transitions, and enhance the socio-economic well-being of teachers.