This study investigates individual decisions regarding flight during civilian conflicts, challenging the assumption that forced migration is solely driven by coercion.

Drawing on primary data from a public opinion survey in Nepal, I test hypotheses about how factors like violence exposure and economic opportunity influence people's choices to flee or stay despite danger.

Key findings reveal that many of these individual-level dynamics align with patterns observed at the aggregate level, highlighting the relevance of choice-centered approaches. Beyond conflict-related risks, significant political factors also shape flight decisions.