Motivations for Voluntary Migration to Hulhumalé in the Context of Climate Change

Abstract

The voluntary migration to Hulhumalé, an artificial island in the Maldives, presents a unique context for studying the impacts of internal migration on life satisfaction. This study aims to identify measures that the Maldivian government could implement to mitigate migration impacts and enhance life satisfaction in Hulhumalé. A recent survey conducted in the four atolls with Maldives National University (MNU) campuses—Kulhudhuffushi, Gan, Hithadhoo, and Thinadhoo—yielded 398 responses, proportionate to their populations. The questionnaire, administered in person by MNU enumerators between December 2023 and January 2024, mirrored the 2022 Hulhumalé survey, focusing on demographics, migration attitudes, and expectations of Hulhumalé. A 2022 survey of Hulhumalé residents revealed disparities in life satisfaction between those who relocated from Malé and those from other atolls. The results from 2024 survey highlight the fact that good facilities, including dining, shopping, sports, and parks, are highly regarded factors driving migration, albeit with the trade-offs of high living expenses, rent, and other housing costs. High-quality primary and higher education, along with access to medical care, were also positively rated. However, aspects related to disaster resilience and safety against sea level rise due to climate change were rated lower.