The effect of rural inequality on fertility and migration: a literature review

Abstract

This article is based on a literature review, which draws together evidence on the extent and nature of asset (land, machinery, durables, etc) inequality in rural areas and its impact on demographic incentives and behaviour of rural households. Although sufficient literature on the topics of rural inequality, migration and fertility was found, very little research on the interrelationship between such inequality and the demographic and environmental consequences exists. This complex interrelationship among different population and economic variables is acknowledged and is currently being tested in field research in Botswana, South Africa and India.