Human migratory movements from small island states : a comparison between Malta and Cyprus

Abstract

Small island states share a diversity of problems ranging from the setting up of the physical infrastructural development to the sustaining of the human recourses. One of the major difficulties ls the lack or resources which hinders the economic activity. Out-migration is one of the principle dilemmas which islands have to address, since such phenomenal contribute to the brain drain of skills and human resources. As a result, such factors cause more pressure on the country in sustaining its economic growth. This study aims to analyse the human emigration patterns from Malta and Cyprus by evaluating the demographic development and trends together with the prevailing economic situations, from the 1950s to 1980s. This dissertation tries to determine whether such emigration process was a main contributor for economic development in the Maltese Islands and Cyprus.