Mixed Migration in West Africa

West Africa is a region with a long-standing culture of migration, primarily characterized by intra-regional movements. Among refugees and migrants interviewed by 4Mi, the data collection programme of MMC, those moving out of the region reported to be migrating predominantly towards North Africa and elsewhere in Africa, and to a lesser extent towards Europe. Return movements include expulsions from Algeria to Niger, evacuations from Libya to Niger, as well as returns through the Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration programmes. Mobility within and out of the region takes place through temporary, circular and more permanent movements, principally for the purpose of labor, but also for other reasons including personal or family reasons. Conflict and violence also lead to internal and cross-border displacement. While the majority of the population live in rural areas, West Africa is experiencing a rapid pace of urbanization.