Return scientific mobility and the internationalization of research capacities in Latin America

Abstract

The chapter examines the return of scientists to their countries of origin in Latin America resulting from active policies introduced by countries affected by massive emigration of their highly qualified personnel. Data on highly skilled emigration of Latin Americans is presented, focusing on assessments of the relevance of return programs. The most obvious policies in this regard have been those of repatriation, re-linkage and recruitment programs for foreign academics. Examples from Mexico are used to examine how this return, whether induced by government policies or based on personal decisions, affects the consolidation of local disciplinary areas and the establishment of globalized knowledge exchange networks.