In Benin, 46% of citizens have considered leaving the country in 2024-2025

Forty-six percent of Beninese respondents surveyed by Afrobarometer report having considered relocating to another country. The report African Insights 2026, presented on September 22 in Cotonou, is based on surveys conducted in 2024 and 2025 across 38 African countries.

Specifically, 23% of Beninese respondents indicate they have thought “a lot” about emigrating, 10% “somewhat,” and 13% “a little.” Among those contemplating departure, 37% cite job search as a reason, 28% mention economic difficulties, and 14% point to poverty.

The sub-region remains the most preferred destination, with 32% of responses. Europe accounts for 25%, North America for 23%, and other African countries for 11%. Other regions of the world total 8%.

The same report notes that 74% of Beninese desire free movement within their sub-region, while 78% find it difficult to cross West African borders for work or trade.

A national note published by Afrobarometer on August 26, 2025, based on the same survey cycle, reported that 40% of individuals had considered emigration, which is six percentage points lower. The 2026 report does not clarify whether this discrepancy is due to revised weighting or a different treatment of responses.