Social inequalities and migration. The case of Bulgaria

There are various causes for, and consequences of, international migration and some of the most significant are the availability of economic and social differentials, and the possibilities for their reduction. The relationship between social inequalities and migration is examined in the paper from three different aspects: 1/ social inequalities between countries and within sending countries as an important determinant of migration processes; 2/ social (in)equality as a result of migration – immigrants’ integration and position in the society of the destination countries; 3/ migrants’ transfers as a premise for reduction of social inequalities in sending countries. Analysis and assessment of the quality of life disparities between Bulgaria, the EU average level, and some of the desired by Bulgarian migrants EU countries of destination, and of inequalities in Bulgaria are made. They are based on official statistical data and on the results of an empirical study of Bulgarian migrants. The book could be useful to professionals and researches in the field of migration and social inequalities and to anyone else who may be interested in this issue.