Return migration, informal learning and human capital development as antecedents of SME internationalization in the CEE region: A systematic literature review

Migration from Eastern to Western Europe has increased under transition from planned to market economies. As migrants return home they may enhance local entrepreneurial activity by transferring skills and knowledge gained abroad. Internationalization of small and medium sized-enterprises (SMEs) may thus be initiated. This article presents a review of antecedental factors of internationalization in the transitional Central and Eastern Europe region (CEE). It is proposed that return migration may influence informal learning to enhance local human capital development and more focused SME internationalization. This chain of argumentation is examined through review of empirical studies to develop a basis for future research.