What is net migration?

Net migration refers specifically to the difference between the number of people moving into a country or region (immigration) and the number leaving that area (emigration). This concept is crucial in understanding population dynamics, as it influences the overall growth or decline of a population. A positive net migration means more individuals are entering than leaving, which can lead to population growth and affect economic conditions, social structures, and resource allocation. Conversely, negative net migration indicates that more people are leaving than arriving, potentially leading to population decline and varying impacts on society.

The other choices do not properly define net migration. The total number of births indicates natural increase in population but does not account for migration. The total number of deaths is also related to population dynamics but again does not consider the movement of people. The number of people moving to urban areas focuses on internal migration patterns rather than the broader context of immigration and emigration, which is integral to understanding net migration.