You correctly note that I said likely, not required. So, we're not in disagreement. I agree with you about the risk to life having some effect, but this obviously doesn't apply to people alive today.

Anyone can move to Asia and have a better quality of life, perhaps, but it sure as hell helps if:

* you can afford regular plane tickets home to family/possibly at short notice,

* you have support back in your home country until you get settled,

* you are wealthy or privileged enough to have access to whatever visa in whichever country you prefer. (e.g. sufficient education and experience to meet the requirements of a skilled work visa)

With respect, if you think intercontinental travel & work isn't primarily the domain of the wealthy, we may have different definitions of wealthy.