A push factor refers to a condition or circumstance in a person's home country or region that motivates or forces them to leave or migrate away from that place. These factors are typically negative or unfavorable aspects that "push" people out. Common examples include poverty, lack of jobs or economic opportunities, political persecution, war, natural disasters, poor medical care, and social discrimination

. In migration studies, push factors are contrasted with pull factors , which are the positive attributes of a destination that attract migrants, such as better job prospects, political freedom, or improved living conditions

. The concept of push factors helps explain why people decide to leave their homes, often due to distressing or unsafe situations. However, it is also recognized that push-pull models are simplifications and do not fully capture the complexity of migration decisions

Summary of Push Factors Examples:

• Economic hardship (poverty, lack of jobs)
• Political persecution or fear
• War and conflict
• Natural disasters (floods, droughts, earthquakes)
• Poor healthcare and education
• Social issues (discrimination, bullying)
• Unsafe working conditions

These factors create pressure or "push" individuals to seek better conditions elsewhere