Lesotho Net Migration
Net migration SM.POP.NETM
Lesotho's net migration was -5,192 in 2025, ranked 81st globally. This represents a 1.7% decrease from 2024. Data from World Bank, covering 1960–2025.
Overview
Lesotho's net migration stood at -5,192 in 2025, a decline of +85 from 2024. Based on recent trends, this figure is projected to reach -5,759 by 2026. Lesotho ranked 81st globally.
Lesotho’s net migration balance has shifted from a modest inflow of 1,989.00 in 1960 to a persistent outflow, reaching –5,192.00 in 2025, which places the kingdom at 81st in the World Bank’s global ranking. The most pronounced surge in outward movement occurred in 2005, when the net migration trough hit –35,679.00, reflecting a period of heightened emigration driven by limited domestic employment opportunities and regional labor‑market dynamics. By contrast, the early 1970s marked the high point of net in‑migration, with a peak of 10,605.00 in 1970, coinciding with post‑independence development programs that attracted return migrants. Lesotho’s recent outflow is comparable to that of peer nations such as Malawi (–5,628.00) and Guyana (–5,092.00), underscoring a regional pattern of labor export. If structural reforms improve job creation and social services, the downward trajectory could moderate, potentially stabilising the net migration figure in the coming decade.
Data & projection
| Year | Net Migration | YoY change | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2028* trend | -6,273 | - | - |
| 2027* trend | -6,016 | - | - |
| 2026* trend | -5,759 | - | - |
| 2025 | -5,192 | −85 | #81 |
| 2024 | -5,107 | +61 | #77 |
| 2023 | -5,168 | +855 | #66 |
| 2022 | -6,023 | −2,574 | #57 |
| 2021 | -3,449 | +0 | #77 |
| 2020 | -3,449 | +3,447 | #72 |
| 2019 | -6,896 | −4 | #70 |
| 2018 | -6,892 | −42 | #65 |
| 2017 | -6,850 | −84 | #68 |
| 2016 | -6,766 | +321 | #65 |
| 2015 | -7,087 | −210 | #75 |
| 2014 | -6,877 | −218 | #73 |
| 2013 | -6,659 | −234 | #70 |
| 2012 | -6,425 | −307 | #75 |
| 2011 | -6,118 | −232 | #77 |
Detected Pattern
Analysis
Lesotho matched the Export Boom Cycle pattern in 2024. Historically, 71% of countries showing this pattern (546 out of 768) saw net migration improve within 24 months. View full analysis →
Frequently Asked Questions
Lesotho's net migration was -5,192 in 2025. Ranked 81st globally. This represents a 1.7% decrease from the previous year.
Lesotho's net migration peaked at 10,605 in 1970.
The lowest net migration in Lesotho was -35,679 in 2005.
Lesotho ranks 81st globally in net migration as of 2025.
The World Bank indicator code is SM.POP.NETM. Data sourced from World Bank.
Lesotho's net migration is projected to reach -5,759 by 2026 based on trend extrapolation.
The net migration of Lesotho in 2025 was -5,192. This ranks 81st in the world.
Cite this page
@misc{historysaid_lesotho_net-migration,
title = {Lesotho Net Migration},
url = {https://historysaid.com/lesotho/net-migration/},
publisher = {HistorySaid},
year = {2026}
}