How do borders influence migration? Insights from open and closed border regimes in the three Guianas

Abstract The ways border regimes affect migration patterns remain ambiguous. Closed borders may constrain but also encourage migrants to pursue alternative channels and destinations. While open be associated with higher migration, oftentimes they promote circulation return. To clarify how different influence patterns, this article examines the impact of closed on outcomes in Guyana, Suriname French Guiana 1950s–1980s period, when all three gained independence or non-sovereign status colonial ties were strong. proposes a conceptual schematic model that can accommodate varied post-colonial political regime transitions explains changes timing, destination composition migration. analysis finds that, counterintuitively, lead high emigration while people stay. proposed illustrates relevance dimensions time: historical juncture , sequence change time span . In sum, rather than preventing yield important effects diversification.