Nurse Migration in the Philippines

by Annie Gorman

In many developing countries, notably the Philippines and several African nations, native-born nurses and health professionals have economic incentives to emigrate to industrialized countries. The rate of this emigration has increased in recent years. Many have expressed concerns about the long-term damage emigration imposes on the health-care systems of the health professionals’ home nations, as well as the risks it poses to those in the home country that are in need of treatment.

This paper focuses on the migration of nurses. It analyzes the issue in the context of globalization and describes the economic effects on the nurses’ home countries and the countries in which they later settle and work. This paper discusses some of the major policy issues associated with nurse migration and suggests how stakeholder organizations and institutions might play a role in crafting a policy that attempts to serve the interests of these nurses and of the health-care systems of both the home and destination countries. Although it does not offer a solution, this paper aims to provide a foundation for those interested in working towards a solution.

Safeguarding the Internet's Democratic Potential

by Angie Yowell

“Free and open media communication is essential to a flourishing democracy. Without information that is freely accessible, citizens cannot fully engage in the democratic process because they are unable to exercise their right to cast an informed vote… With the advent of each additional communications medium (telegraph, radio, television, etc.), the ability of information to travel over time and space is altered. American citizens are given opportunities to connect with each other faster and more often for political communication and advocacy organization…”