Social Capital and Migration: A Case Study of Rural Vietnam

To investigate the short-run effects of social capital on migration decisions of individuals in the rural areas of Vietnam, we conducted dataset mining and performed regression model analysis in the form of panel data. As control variables, we employed the variable of social capital, which is measured by an individual’s network, as well as demographic characteristics of individuals and households. We discovered that when a household is in financial distress, social networks such as linkages or asking for aid from others often enhance individual capacity. Individuals with a large social network outside of their immediate area are more inclined to relocate to the location where their connectors live. Individual participation and degree of participation in the organizational community, on the other hand, have little bearing on the likelihood of migration. In addition, this research examines theories and empirical research on the relationship between social capital and migration. Based on our research findings, we have recommended some measures to boost the efficiency of social capital and migration in rural areas of Vietnam through local government solutions.