Despite the diversity of the variables considered, explanatory models of migration do not fully incorporate the locality of origin as a scale of observation for migratory behaviour. Migration is often perceived to generate notions of territory; conversely, are local territories drivers of mobility? If so, in what forms, and by what means? This article analyses international migration from the city of Kaolack in Senegal, with particular focus on the role of the neighbourhood in migration dynamics. Here, the neighbourhood is seen as relatively homogeneous and singular historical and social entity. The ties that are established and maintained from one generation to the next take the form of shared lifestyles and modes of organization which may influence inhabitants' propensity to emigrate. © Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2008.

Neighbourhood relations Local context international migration Social networks Neighbourhood

international migration migratory behavior migration determinant mobility social network Kaolack Africa Sub-Saharan Africa emigration neighborhood West Africa population migration Senegal