Examine How And Why Migration Is Increasing Globally ✓ Solved

Examine how and why migration is increasing globally.

Globalization has caused extensive shifts in the mobility of people between countries. Economics, political shifts, and increased opportunities for travel have made migration and immigration pervasive. This assignment will explore immigration patterns, focusing on global migration and US immigration. Consider the recent trends in migration and immigration in the U.S. Using the readings for this module, the Argosy University online library resources, and the Internet, respond to the following: Examine how and why migration is increasing globally. Address the increasing immigration situation in the U.S. State and explain your perspective on whether the U.S. is inclusive or exclusive to migrants. Evaluate the positive and negative aspects of immigration. Be sure to represent both sides. Support your statements with examples and scholarly references.

Paper For Above Instructions

Migration and immigration patterns have seen substantial transformations in the modern era due to the forces of globalization. Globalization has intensified the interconnectedness of economies, cultures, and political systems, leading to an unprecedented flow of people across borders. This paper explores the factors contributing to the increase in global migration, examines the situation of immigration in the U.S., discusses whether the U.S. is inclusive or exclusive to migrants, and evaluates the positive and negative aspects of immigration.

Factors Contributing to Increased Global Migration

Several key factors contribute to the increase in global migration. Economically, disparities in job opportunities between countries often drive individuals to seek better employment and living conditions elsewhere. Nations with robust economies tend to attract immigrants looking for better wages and quality of life. According to the United Nations (2022), the economic disparity between developed and developing nations remains a primary motivator for migration.

Political factors also play a significant role in migration trends. Conflict, persecution, and political instability force many individuals to seek refuge in more stable environments. For example, the civil war in Syria has resulted in millions of refugees fleeing to Europe and neighboring countries (Kirkpatrick, 2021). As political situations change rapidly around the globe, people seek countries that offer greater security and political freedom.

Moreover, technological advancements in transportation and communication have made it easier for people to migrate. The availability of affordable air travel and the rise of digital platforms for job searching and networking have increased mobility. This ease of travel has led more individuals to consider migration as a viable option, influencing their decisions to leave their home countries (Castles & Miller, 2020). Social networks also play an essential role in facilitating migration, as family and friends serve as support systems for new arrivals, helping them integrate into their host communities.

The Immigration Situation in the U.S.

The United States has long been perceived as a land of opportunity, attracting millions of immigrants from around the world. Recent trends show a sharp increase in immigration, with a variety of factors influencing this situation. As of 2021, the U.S. Census Bureau reported that approximately 44.9 million immigrants resided in the United States, nearly 14% of the total population (Cohen, 2021). This influx has been propelled by economic opportunities and the enduring belief in the American Dream.

However, the immigration situation in the U.S. remains complex and contentious. On one hand, many argue that the U.S. is inclusive, providing avenues for migrants to thrive and contribute to the economy. Immigrants significantly contribute to the labor force, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, technology, and healthcare. A report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (2017) indicated that immigration had a positive impact on the U.S. economy, highlighting that immigrants often take up jobs that are lacking in domestic labor supply.

On the other hand, there are concerns about the exclusivity of U.S. immigration policies. Critics assert that stringent immigration laws and fluctuating political sentiment create an environment that is often unwelcoming to migrants. Numerous reports have documented the experiences of undocumented migrants in fear of deportation and discrimination (The Pew Research Center, 2021). Moreover, high-profile political debates often frame immigration in a negative light, reinforcing societal divisions between native-born citizens and immigrants.

Positive Aspects of Immigration

Immigration can confer numerous benefits to both the host country and the immigrants themselves. Economically, immigrants contribute to the local economy by filling labor shortages, boosting tax revenues, and stimulating business growth. According to the Fiscal Policy Institute (2015), immigrants contributed an estimated $1.6 trillion to the U.S. economy, underscoring their significant role in economic development.

Socially, immigration fosters cultural diversity, enriching communities through the introduction of new perspectives, traditions, and cuisines. This cultural exchange can lead to innovation and enhance creativity within society. For example, cities like New York and Los Angeles thrive on their multicultural environments, creating vibrant communities that attract both tourists and residents alike (Florida, 2017).

Negative Aspects of Immigration

Despite the positive contributions of immigration, there are also negative aspects that warrant consideration. Some argue that immigration can lead to job competition between immigrants and native workers, particularly in lower-skilled jobs, potentially driving down wages. Research suggests that while immigration has overall positive effects on the economy, it can create short-term challenges for specific labor market segments (Borjas, 2016).

Additionally, immigration can strain public resources, particularly in areas with large and sudden inflows of migrants. The demand for housing, healthcare, and education may increase, leading to challenges in resource allocation and service provision. Local governments may struggle to address these needs effectively, creating tensions within communities (Friedman & Marshall, 2019).

Conclusion

In conclusion, migration is on the rise globally due to a combination of economic, political, technological, and social factors. The influx of immigrants into the U.S. paints a multifaceted picture of inclusion and exclusion, with both positive and negative implications. Recognizing the complexities of immigration is crucial in shaping policies that balance the benefits and challenges. As globalization continues to evolve, the dynamics of migration will likely remain a significant area of focus for societies around the world.

References

  • Borjas, G. J. (2016). Labor Economics. New York: McGraw-Hill Education.
  • Castles, S., & Miller, M. J. (2020). The Age of Migration: International Population Movements in the Modern World. London: Palgrave Macmillan.
  • Cohen, P. (2021). U.S. Census Bureau: Current Population Reports. Government Printing Office.
  • Florida, R. (2017). The New Urban Crisis: How Our Cities Are Increasing Inequality, Deepening Segregation, and Failing the Middle Class--And What We Can Do About It. New York: Basic Books.
  • Fiscal Policy Institute. (2015). The Contributions of New Americans: Economic Impact of Immigrants in New York State. Retrieved from [Fiscal Policy Institute website]
  • Friedman, B., & Marshall, L. (2019). The Economic and Fiscal Effects of Immigration in the United States. American Economic Association.
  • Kirkpatrick, D. D. (2021). The Impact of the Syrian Civil War on Global Migration. The New York Times.
  • National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2017). The Integration of Immigrants into American Society. Washington, D.C.: The National Academies Press.
  • Pew Research Center. (2021). The Future of World Religions: Population Growth Projections, 2010-2050. Pew Research Center.
  • United Nations. (2022). International Migration 2022: Global//Regional Trends. United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs.