Nevertheless, many Mongolians have left Mongolia to search for opportunities elsewhere and here’s where they go:
- South Korea: 55,000
- Japan: 19,500
- USA: 19,000
- Australia: 11,000
- Kazakhstan: 7,200
- Czech Republic: 6,500
- Ireland: 5,300
- China: 5,100
- Germany: 4,000
- Sweden: 4,000
- India: 1,100
In total, 122,301 Mongolians live abroad according to the 2020 Census.
Why Do Mongolians Choose to Move Abroad?
Over the past few decades, significant numbers of Mongolians have migrated to other countries for various reasons, including economic opportunities, education, political stability, and sometimes personal or familial reasons.
Here’s a detailed look into the Mongolian diaspora and the factors that drive this migration:
Reasons for Migration:
- Economic Opportunities:
- One of the primary reasons for the Mongolian diaspora is the pursuit of better economic opportunities abroad. Mongolia, while rich in natural resources such as minerals, has struggled with economic instability and limited job opportunities, especially for younger generations. This has prompted many Mongolians to seek work in countries like South Korea, Japan, and the USA, where wages are significantly higher.
- Education:
- A significant portion of the Mongolian diaspora consists of students pursuing education abroad. Countries like Japan, the USA, Australia, and South Korea are popular destinations due to the quality of education, scholarships, and potential job opportunities post-graduation. Many students end up staying in their host countries after completing their studies due to better job prospects.
- Political Stability and Social Conditions:
- While Mongolia is a relatively stable democracy, the political landscape can be unpredictable, and social services such as healthcare and education are often underdeveloped compared to more advanced nations. This drives people to migrate, especially those seeking a better quality of life for themselves and their families.
- Family Reunification:
- As migration continues, family reunification becomes an increasingly important factor. Once one family member has successfully settled abroad, others often follow to join them, contributing to the growth of Mongolian communities in host countries.
- Labor Agreements and Programs:
- Countries like South Korea have specific work programs and agreements with Mongolia that facilitate the migration of Mongolian workers, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, construction, and agriculture. These programs often offer relatively high wages compared to what workers can earn in Mongolia.
Challenges Faced by the Mongolian Diaspora:
- Cultural and Language Barriers:
- Many Mongolian migrants face challenges adjusting to the new cultures and languages of their host countries, which can affect their ability to integrate and find good employment.
- Legal and Employment Issues:
- Some Mongolians face visa restrictions and may end up working in informal or less secure jobs. Legal protections may not always be robust, leading to potential exploitation or difficulties in securing stable employment.
- Social Isolation:
- Being away from their home country can lead to social isolation and mental health challenges, especially in countries where Mongolian communities are not well established.
Major Destinations for the Mongolian Diaspora:
- South Korea: The largest population of Mongolians outside Mongolia resides here, drawn by labor agreements and work opportunities.
- Japan and the USA: Both countries have sizable Mongolian student populations and communities involved in various sectors.
- Australia and Europe (Ireland, Czech Republic, Germany, Sweden): These countries are popular for education and skilled migration.
- Kazakhstan and China: These countries are home to historical Mongolian populations and continue to attract modern migrants due to geographic proximity and cultural ties.
Other Diaspora Maps in the series:
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