Brain drain from Europe and Turkiye to the U.S.: A critical literature review

Abstract

This study examines brain drain from Europe and Turkiye to the United States through a comparative perspective, critically analyzing key approaches in the literature. While brain drain has been a longstanding topic of research in the context of high-skilled migration, individual experiences, academic integration, and the role of diasporas have been relatively understudied. Existing studies indicate that migration motivations differ between Europe and Turkiye. While European scholars migrate mainly for scientific collaborations and research opportunities, Turkish academics often cite academic freedom, publishing opportunities, and access to scientific resources as primary factors. This study evaluates the similarities and differences between these two migration patterns while assessing the methodological and theoretical frameworks used in brain drain research. It highlights the limited presence of qualitative studies in the literature and underscores the necessity of focusing more on individual migration narratives. Analyzing personal migration stories in depth will provide a broader perspective on the phenomenon of brain drain. In this context, a critical literature review method was adopted. The review covered both qualitative and quantitative studies and was structured around the push-pull model, human capital theory, and migration systems theory as key conceptual frameworks. Finally, the comparative analysis of brain drain from developing to developed countries versus academic mobility between developed nations is expected to offer significant insights into migration literature and science policy discussions.