From Clicks to Choices: The Influence of Social Media on Migration Decisions

Abstract

The advent of social media has profoundly shaped contemporary migration patterns, particularly in facilitating rural to-urban migration dynamics. Drawing on insights from Awumbila et al. (2017), Dekker et al. (2018), Alencar (2018), and Hidayati (2019), this study investigates the transformative role of social media in driving migration trends on a global scale. By providing migrants with access to abundant information and networking opportunities, social media platforms have emerged as pivotal tools influencing migration decision-making processes. The integration of social media into migration dynamics has not only facilitated the dissemination of information about destination conditions but also fostered connections and integration efforts among migrants. As highlighted by Dekker et al. (2018), social media minimizes migration costs and risks while enhancing migrants' access to relevant information, thus serving as a catalyst for migration flows. Moreover, Hidayati (2019) underscores the significance of social media networks in facilitating integration and connection opportunities for migrants, thereby fostering a sense of community and support both pre- and post-migration. By synthesizing insights from multiple studies, this research sheds light on the multifaceted impact of social media on migration dynamics, highlighting its potential to reshape spatial mobility patterns and influence settlement decisions