Abstract:

Migration is a reality of a globalized society that covers social, economic, political and cultural aspects. Migration can be seen both as positive and as a negative process with all its consequences. Among the European countries, Latvia has the highest level of unemployment among youth in Baltic countries, respectively 29,3%, as compared with 25.9% in Lithuania and 22.8% in Estonia (Eurostat, 2012). According to the statistics, youth comprise 30% of all the unemployed population. Among the main reasons of migration, the following can be mentioned: high level of unemployment, lack of means of living, as well as a number of social problems related to the purchase of the apartment. The most frequently mentioned arguments supporting migration of youth are as following: financial support of their family members by transferring money from abroad, newly acquired language skills that help when returning home. On the other hand, migration processes foster brain drain and a flow of a workforce from one country to another, as well as changes in the structure of family models. The problem of unemployment of youth is greatly influenced by the social and economic problems in the country. Today a job market is more complicated than it was 10 - 20 years ago. There is a growing demand for the qualified workforce, more experienced workers, person’s ability to adjust to changing circumstances, and therefore, young people feel insecure about their future because their qualification does not always help to get higher social status.

The authors analyse causes of migration related to unemployment, economic situation in the country and other interrelated factors.

The study explores the possibilities of a career choice for youth abroad and factors that influence a career choice of young people abroad. The study reflects the analyses of data gained in an internet survey and by conducting individual life story interviews.

Keywords:

Migration of youth, career opportunities abroad, career planning.