Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/325086 
Year of Publication: 
2025
Series/Report no.: 
IZA Discussion Papers No. 18028
Publisher: 
Institute of Labor Economics (IZA), Bonn
Abstract: 
We study how drug-related violence affects emigration from Central America, a region with rapidly rising migration to the United States. Using multiple data sources, we apply an instrumental variables strategy based on proximity to drug-trafficking routes and coca production in Colombia. We find that violence significantly increases intentions, plans, and preparations to emigrate–especially to the U.S.–with stronger effects among young and high-skilled individuals. Mediation analysis suggests this response is driven by declining economic activity and, more importantly, deteriorating labor market conditions caused by escalating violence.
Subjects: 
drug trafficking
violence
economic activity
labor markets
migration
JEL: 
J61
O15
N96
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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