The Economy of Romania
Emigration and the Diaspora
Millions of Romanians live abroad, sending money home but leaving labour shortages and an ageing population.
A country of leavers.
Scale
Estimates suggest three to four million Romanians work abroad.
Remittances
Money sent home supports families and consumption.
Impact
Doctors, engineers and nurses have left, and firms face shortages.
Returns
Some diaspora members return with skills and savings.
A nurse abroad
A Romanian nurse works in Italy and sends money to family.
Seeing emigration only as a loss
It also brings remittances and skills.
Key takeaways
- Millions live abroad.
- Remittances help households.
- Skilled workers leave.
- Some return.
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