Illegal immigration is a complex global issue affecting both developed and developing countries. People migrate illegally for various reasons, including economic hardship, political persecution, violence, and environmental challenges. This migration is a global concern because it raises issues related to national security, economic impact, human rights, and social integration. Read here to learn more.
The U.S. deported several Indian nationals who were illegally staying in the country, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed on Friday (October 26, 2024). The department did not specify how many people were on the flight.
Reports have been published stating that Indians form the third-largest illegal immigrant population in the U.S.
Key Drivers of Illegal Immigration
- Economic Disparities:
- Many migrants leave their home countries in search of better economic opportunities in wealthier countries.
- For instance, a significant portion of undocumented immigrants in the United States come from Central America, driven by poverty and a lack of jobs.
- Similarly, economic disparity drives North African migrants toward Europe.
- Political Instability and Conflict:
- Political turmoil, such as that seen in Syria, Afghanistan, and South Sudan, creates refugees and undocumented immigrants who flee to escape persecution or violence.
- For example, Syrian refugees fleeing civil war often migrate to Europe through illegal routes.
- Environmental Factors:
- Climate change and environmental disasters contribute to forced migration.
- The Pacific Islands, for instance, face rising sea levels that threaten communities, while regions in Africa experience desertification, making traditional farming difficult.
- These factors contribute to illegal immigration as individuals seek survival and stability.
Patterns and Routes
- North America:
- The U.S.-Mexico border is one of the most heavily trafficked routes for illegal immigration.
- Migrants primarily from Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras cross the border, often facilitated by organized smuggling networks.
- Policies in the U.S. aim to deter illegal immigration, but poverty and violence in these countries continue to push people northward.
- Europe:
- Europe faces illegal immigration largely from North Africa and the Middle East, with migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea or entering via Eastern Europe.
- The European Union (EU) has established various agreements, like the EU-Turkey deal, to manage these flows, but political instability in countries such as Libya and Afghanistan complicates efforts.
- Asia:
- In Asia, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Pakistan have high rates of undocumented migration.
- Many Bangladeshis and Rohingya from Myanmar attempt to migrate illegally to Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia, often by boat.
- Australia:
- Australia faces illegal immigration mainly through maritime routes from Southeast Asia.
- However, strict immigration and border policies, including offshore processing centres, have reduced unauthorized arrivals significantly.
Implications and Challenges of Illegal Immigration
- Economic Impact:
- Illegal immigration can affect labour markets, with concerns about wage suppression and competition for low-skilled jobs.
- However, many undocumented immigrants take on jobs that native-born workers may be unwilling to do.
- For example, undocumented workers often play a crucial role in U.S. agriculture and European construction sectors.
- Security Concerns:
- Governments often cite security concerns associated with illegal immigration, as it is challenging to verify the backgrounds of undocumented individuals.
- This is a significant focus in the U.S., where illegal immigration is often associated with national security discussions.
- Human Rights Issues:
- Illegal immigrants often face poor working conditions, lack of legal protections, and vulnerability to exploitation.
- Additionally, border control measures can lead to humanitarian issues, as migrants face dangerous journeys, detainment, or deportation.
- Social and Political Impacts:
- Illegal immigration often fuels political debate and polarization, with views ranging from calls for stricter border control to advocacy for more humane treatment and pathways to citizenship.
Addressing Illegal Immigration
- Comprehensive Border Policies: Countries like the U.S. and members of the EU have strengthened border security and surveillance to deter illegal immigration. Australia’s strict border policies, including offshore detention, have significantly reduced unauthorized entries.
- Regional Cooperation: Collaborative approaches among countries help address illegal immigration’s root causes. For instance, the U.S. and Mexico have agreements to manage migration, while the EU works with countries like Turkey to stem migrant flows from Syria.
- Addressing Root Causes: Tackling the economic, political, and environmental factors driving migration is critical. Investment in development projects in high-emigration countries and climate adaptation strategies can mitigate push factors.
- Regularization and Pathways to Citizenship: Some countries have implemented amnesty or regularization programs, allowing undocumented migrants to gain legal status if they meet specific criteria. This approach is often debated, balancing humanitarian considerations with concerns about incentivizing further illegal immigration.
Percentage of Illegal Immigrants by Country 2024
The United States has the highest percentage of illegal immigrants by country, according to most reports. With a total population of over 330 million people, it is estimated that the United States is home to over 52 million immigrants.
Germany comes in second as having the most immigrants in the world, being a centralized location for Europe and also a progressive society that is safe for many people fleeing terror or needing asylum or refugee relief from their nation.
Saudi Arabia is also a key location with a booming economy, making it an ideal location for immigrants.
- This country ranks number three for the percentage of illegal immigrants by country.
Russia comes in number four on the list with 11 million immigrants, and the United Kingdom ranks fifth with 9 million immigrants but ties with the UAE for 9 million immigrants.
- United States: 52 million immigrants, 15 per cent of the population
- Germany: 16 million immigrants, 18.8 per cent of the population
- Saudi Arabia: 14 million immigrants, 39 per cent of the population
- Russia: 11 million immigrants, 7.9 per cent of the population
- United Kingdom: 9 million immigrants, 14 per cent of the population
Conclusion
Managing illegal immigration requires a nuanced, multi-pronged approach that considers the economic, political, and social dimensions of migration. Efforts to address root causes, establish fair immigration policies, and manage border security will be critical to tackling the issue effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is the illegal immigration act in India?
Ans: Illegal migrants may be imprisoned or deported under the Foreigners Act, of 1946 and the Passport (Entry into India) Act, of 1920. The 1946 and the 1920 Acts empowered the central government to regulate the entry, exit and residence of foreigners within India.
Q. Which country has the highest immigration in India?
Ans: Bangladesh is the country with the highest number of international immigrants in India.
Related articles:
- Refugee Crisis in India
- Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955
- Citizenship Amendment Act 2019
- Brain Drain: The Great Indian Migration
-Article by Swathi Satish
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