DEVELOPING BRAIN GAIN POLICIES IN MACEDONIA: PITFALLS AND CHALLENGES

This paper fills the vacuum of qualitative research work on some of the reasons for and aspects of the flow of highly skilled migrants from Macedonia. First, it surveyed the roots, manifestations and effects of the process of brain drain. Then, it analyzed the defense mechanisms of Macedonian institutions, arguing that there has not been a coherent, solid evidence-based policy, strategy or plans to alleviate the detrimental effects of the gradual diminution of human resources caused by brain drain. The original contribution of the paper lies in its field research component, which investigated the personal narratives of highly skilled returnees to Macedonia and offered a comprehensive overview of the motives and determinants of a highly skilled individual’s decision to pursue a career at home or abroad, which was complemented by the perception and suggestions of highly skilled foreigners.