World Development Report 2023

The 2023 edition of the World Development Report (WDR), published annually by the World Bank, explores the role of migration in development, examining how cross-border movements of migrants and refugees impact international development. The report highlights that 184 million people worldwide live outside of their country of nationality, and offers a framework to maximize the development impacts of migration, including how migration can help achieve the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Drawing from labor economics and international law, the report presents a policy framework that focuses on (1) how closely migrants’ skills match the needs of destination countries and (2) the motives that underlie the movements of migrants and refugees. The framework aims to guide the adoption of migration policies that strengthen and progress the development impact of migration worldwide. The report includes chapters discussing the outlook of origin and destination countries, migrants, refugees, and distressed migrants. It also offers recommendations to manage and increase the benefits of migration and cross-border movements through international cooperation. 

The report is accompanied by an executive summary and a video summary of key findings from the report.

This publication is part of the World Bank’s series of World Development Reports, which have been published annually since 1978 and serve as invaluable guides to the economic, social, and environmental state of the world. Each report provides in-depth analysis and policy recommendations on a specific and important aspect of development—from agriculture, the role of the state, transition economies, and labor to infrastructure, health, the environment, and poverty.