The 'brain drain' phenomenon: measuring the intention of young Greek scientists to migrate abroad

摘要

The deep and extended recession of the Greek economy during the last six years had a serious effect on the employment rates of the country. More specifically, in 2013 the unemployment rate approached the extremely high level of 30% (official data), while the same percentage reached almost 65% among young citizens. This unpleasant phenomenon often drives young scientists (university graduates) to seek employment abroad. In the present paper the 'brain drain' phenomenon in the case of Greece is being analyzed, focusing on the empirical investigation of the intention of young Greek scientists to migrate abroad. In this context, an empirical research was conducted in a sample of 322 young scientists between 22 and 30 years of age (all members of the sample have completed their studies in an Institute of Higher Education). The statistical analysis was conducted with the use of the statistical package SPSS 20. Results reveal interesting dimensions of the 'brain drain' agenda and can be used in order to help understanding the 'brain drain' phenomenon and, at the same time, contribute to developing measures for reducing the escapism of young people.