What does migration refer to in human geography?

Migration in human geography specifically refers to the movement of people from one location to another with the intention of settling either temporarily or permanently. This process can involve various motivations, including seeking better living conditions, employment opportunities, education, or escaping adverse situations such as conflict or natural disasters.

This definition encompasses a broad range of scenarios, including both voluntary migration—where people choose to relocate—and involuntary migration, such as refugees fleeing their home countries. By emphasizing the intent to settle, the definition captures the long-term implications of migration on both the origin and destination communities, including social, economic, and cultural changes.

Other options do not fully encapsulate the complexities of human migration. For instance, mentioning only temporary relocation without the element of intending to settle overlooks many aspects of migration. Similarly, restricting the definition to the movement of animals misrepresents the human-focused scope of human geography, and limiting migration to employment purposes neglects other critical factors driving human movement.