BETHLEHEM, Palestine / PNN/
A new public opinion study has found that most Palestinians view emigration as a loss to society and the national cause, even as more than one-third say they have considered leaving the country amid growing economic, political and security pressures.
The study, conducted by the Palestinian Center for Public Opinion (PCPO) as part of the World Association for Public Opinion Research’s (WAPOR) Global Report on Important Topics (GRIT) project, surveyed residents of the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip in April 2026.
According to the findings, 73% of Palestinians believe that the emigration of Palestinians abroad harms society, while only 17% see it as beneficial. The results suggest that migration is closely linked in Palestinian public consciousness to national identity, resilience and the preservation of the Palestinian presence on the land.
Despite these concerns, the survey found that 35% of respondents have considered emigrating to some extent, including 20% who said they are seriously considering leaving. By contrast, 56% said they are not considering emigration at all.
Economic hardship emerged as the leading driver of migration, cited by 40% of respondents. Political factors followed at 25%, while violence and insecurity accounted for 15%. The findings reflect the difficult economic conditions facing many Palestinians, with more than half of respondents reporting a monthly income below 2,000 shekels.
The study also found more favourable attitudes toward people moving to Palestine from abroad. Nearly half of respondents (48%) said such arrivals benefit society, while 31% viewed them negatively. Family reunification was identified as the primary reason for inward migration, cited by 46% of respondents.
International comparisons using Gallup International Association data showed that Palestinians rank among the populations most likely to view emigration as a national loss. Palestine recorded a net migration perception score of -42, compared with a global average of -10.
The study concluded that migration in the Palestinian context cannot be understood solely through economic considerations. Instead, it is shaped by a combination of political, social, cultural and national factors. Researchers noted that the desire to emigrate does not necessarily indicate weakening national attachment, but rather reflects the cumulative impact of economic hardship, political uncertainty and security concerns.
The report recommends expanding employment opportunities, improving economic conditions, supporting Palestinian professionals and entrepreneurs, and strengthening programmes that offer young people greater prospects for stability and development within Palestinian society.