How has emigration reduced pressure on housing and food supplies in the Dominican Republic?

The premise that emigration has reduced pressure on housing and food supplies in the Dominican Republic is supported by historical demographic trends. Since the mid-1960s, more than one-tenth of the country's population has emigrated, primarily to New York City and other parts of the United States to improve their economic circumstances.1

This significant outward flow of people has served to alleviate the strain on local resources, specifically by reducing the demand for housing and lessening the pressure on food production and water supplies. Furthermore, this migration has provided a vital economic benefit to the nation; many families remaining in the country have seen their incomes boosted through the receipt of remittances in the form of cash and consumer goods.1