Emigration tendencies after entering the EU: implications of a qualified worforce loss

Abstract

The education needs for a particular country and the particular specialties should be considered when taking into account the increased movement of labour force related with expansion of the European Union (EU) economic area. In the paper, the authors focus on emigration as a factor that influences needs for educated employees in a labour exporting country. The authors also elaborate on what impact the newly introduced free movement of the labour force is likely to have on the Lithuanian economy. The authors adopt the following approach to the questions being raised. At first, the peculiarities of the transition period for the free labour movement for Lithuanian workers established by various European countries is discussed. Secondly, the emigration scope, structure and distribution according to the main branches of industry are observed. The economic reasons for emigration are likewise presented. The consequences of emigration, particularly the increase of the local working force costs and rising demand for skilled employees, are estimated. Finally, the authors relate emigration issues to Lithuania and its need to reorient its export pattern from low-skilled labour intensive goods to high-tech intensive goods.