Canadians in Hong Kong and the Rest of the World: Some Policy Implications Shibao Guo University of Calgary & Don DeVoretz RIIM/Simon Fraser University 8th Metropolis Conference Vancouver, March 24, 2006

Outline Contextual information Theoretical framework A questionnaire approach Preliminary results Conclusions and implications

The Chinese Leaver-Stayer Project Examines the underlying forces that influence the move-stay decision for Chinese immigrants Two stages 1.Seeks understanding of the integration experience of Chinese immigrants in Canada 2.The experience of Chinese immigrants who returned home

Research Questions Why do some people decide to leave while others stay? Who leaves, who stays, and why? Does Canada push them back home or do forces in their home country attract them back? What are the policy implications?

Human Capital Triangle

Questionnaire I.Basic information II.Motivations for moving III.Re-integration experience in China IV.Concluding remarks

I: Basic Information GenderAge Place of Birth Current Residence Family Members Language Marital Status NationalityEducation Background

II. Motivations for Moving to Canada/China

1. Chinese qualifications not recognized2. Chinese experience not recognized 3. Lack of Canadian work experience4. Lack of Canadian qualifications 5. Language difficulties 6. Lack of social network

1.More opportunities for promotion 2.Higher paying jobs 3.More job security

III: Re-integration Experience in China Any difficulties of re-integrating into Chinese society? Employment Experiences in China Social Experience Impressions of China Experience with government and non- government organizations

1. Homemaker 2. Teachers and professors 3. Other managers occupations4. Professional occupations in business and finance

1. Teachers and professors2. Professional occ. in business & finance 3. Other managers occupations4. Senior managers

If no, how would you describe it? (%) More open 41.3 Same 4 Less open 1.3 More developed 48 Same 4 Less developed 0 More bureaucratic 9.3 Same 17.3 Less bureaucratic 10.7 More difficult to travel 6.7 Same 6.7 Less difficult to travel 28 More polluted 32 Same 5.3 Less polluted 6.7

IV: Concluding Remarks What could the Canadian government do to help new Chinese immigrants integrate into Canadian society more effectively? What could the Chinese government do to help you with your re-integration process in China? How could the two governments cooperate to help returned Chinese immigrants? Anything else you like to add?

Policy Implications How much returning is good for Canada? –0%? –100%? What can Canadian Government do to help retain this group of immigrants? What are the policy implications of this research to other immigrants in Canada?

Thank you!