Biggest challenges
Thus far, discussion of the 2012 Preliminary Census has focussed on 1) the population decline over the intercensal period 2002-2012; 2) the effect of outward migration; 3) estimating what the population might have been if it were not for item 2; and 4) making the inference, based on the preliminary data that high levels of brain drain (observed in previous intercensal periods) persisted. In regard to item 4, most analysts share the view: “the emigration of skilled Guyanese represents the biggest challenges to economic and human development in the country” (IDB, 2013, p 12).