The statistical properties of the networks of emigrants: the Ecuadorian case

Abstract

This article shows that the threshold model appropriately analysed can explain the emigration process as a consequence of the network features, where the willingness to emigrate depends on the personal and household conditions borne by the emigrant. In such a case, the emigration process can be defined in terms of a Pólya schema, and the emigration rate converges almost surely to a random variable with a beta distribution, which fully characterizes the network (assimilation, integration, separation or marginalization). The model is applied to Ecuador, which has experienced an unprecedented wave of emigration since 1998. We show that, despite the massive exodus, the process does not constitute a diaspora, because Ecuadorians do not interact appropriately with natives.

The Determinants of Subjective Well-Being in a Developing Country: The Ecuadorian Case

“…The second reason relies on the importance of internet and ICT communication to maintain family ties and well-being in countries with high emigration rates (Nedelcu 2012;Dekker and Engbersen 2014;Bacigalupe and Cámara 2012;Benítez 2012). The Ecuadorian case, as shown by Espinosa et al (2019), is emblematic because since 2000, emigration has grown rapidly; nowadays, around one-fifth of the population lives abroad but without appropriately integrating with natives, keeping strong ties with the origin country and having strong preferences for family reunification (Leifsen and Tymczuk 2012). Therefore, as well as for leisure time, we expect that internet use, as it approximates social ties, will have a positive impact on well-being.…”