This paper discusses the experience of Barbados, a small island developing state in the (English-speaking) Caribbean, with migration in the 21st century. Drawing on analyses of the pre- and post-emancipation periods, the paper demonstrates that inward and outward migration has historically shaped the development trajectory of Barbados.

While inward migration has helped to address deficits in the labour market in sectors such as agriculture, construction, care work, and hospitality, outward migration has contributed to high rates of emigration of skilled migrants. In terms of the latter, there is a lack of consensus regarding the impact of remittances on development. Moreover, high rates of emigration have compounded declining fertility and an increase in the aging population. While various government policies acknowledge the importance of migration to development, there is need for a cohesive vision for migration and development.

The paper, therefore, emphasizes the importance of data collection, analysis, and reporting to support the development of evidence-based migration policy. By presenting an analysis of contemporary migration policy and trends over the past two decades, the paper contributes to the literature regarding the state of migration in Barbados, as well as the wider Caribbean.