## Migration: A Global Issue with Economic and Political Impact
In a year of elections, populist leaders worldwide are exploiting the narrative that migration is out of control. However, data from the United Nations shows that international migrants remain a small minority of the global population, with domestic movement still being the norm.
The real change in recent years is the intensification of migration drivers due to geopolitics, technology, and climate change. Irregular migration routes are increasing as safe pathways become unavailable.
In the United States, immigration at the southern border has become a totemic issue in the presidential election campaign. However, the US is not alone in facing the challenge of balancing the needs of its citizens with the influx of people seeking a better life, a dynamic that has shaped modern America.
Case studies from South Africa, New Zealand, Peru, Ireland, and Denver, Colorado, illustrate the diverse impacts of migration on national and municipal governments. The fallout is not just political but also economic. Businesses are concerned about restricted access to international talent and are beginning to speak out.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) emphasizes that the flow of people across borders drives human development globally, meets critical labor demands, and enriches societies. Despite varying education levels, nearly three-quarters of international migrants are of working age.
In the UK, an upgrade in the demographic outlook due to high migration flows has resulted in a larger pool of workers and a potentially larger economy. Similarly, Australia’s recent economic growth has been driven by inbound migration, but underlying weaknesses are becoming apparent as arrivals peak.
As migration dominates economic and political debates worldwide, governments are grappling with an issue that is not going away.
### Case Studies
#### Peru: Venezuelan Migrants Struggle for Acceptance
Venezuelan migrants have fled their homeland in large numbers, with Peru receiving over 1.5 million people. Despite temporary work permits, they often face employment gaps and are now the largest foreign group in Peru, representing 4.8% of the population.
However, acceptance of Venezuelan migrants is diminishing due to rising crime and economic challenges. An elite police squad was created in 2020 to combat crimes committed by foreigners, who are overwhelmingly Venezuelan.
#### South Africa: Scapegoating Migrants for Political Gain
In South Africa, the African National Congress (ANC) is facing a possible loss of its majority in the upcoming elections. To win votes, the ANC has scapegoated migrants for the country’s problems, despite their small presence of 4%.
Anti-migrant rhetoric has escalated, with vigilante groups like Operation Dudula attacking migrants and destroying their property. The government has also attempted to strip 180,000 Zimbabweans of their right to stay and proposed overhauling immigration laws that could lead to deportations.
#### New Zealand: Record Immigration Raises Concerns
New Zealand has experienced a record influx of 226,000 foreigners in the past year. While the country has long been seen as welcoming, the high number of arrivals is putting pressure on infrastructure, housing prices, and services.
The central bank has raised interest rates to curb inflation and the government has tightened immigration rules for low-skilled workers. Finding affordable housing has become a challenge for immigrants.
#### Ireland: Asylum Seekers Face Accommodation Crisis
Ireland, once a nation of emigrants, is now a destination for migrants due to its economic growth and low tax rates. However, the Irish immigration system is in crisis, with over 1,600 asylum seekers without accommodation.
People are forced to sleep on the streets outside government offices, and tensions with local communities have risen as hotels and vacant buildings are used to house asylum seekers.
#### Denver, Colorado: Influx of Migrants Strains Resources
Denver has become the destination for thousands of migrants fleeing poverty and authoritarian regimes. Nearly 40,000 newcomers have arrived since 2022, representing over 5% of the population.
The city is struggling to provide shelter, meals, and other services to migrants. The mayor has asked for federal support, but his calls have been largely ignored.
## Conclusion
Migration is a complex issue that affects nations worldwide. It has both positive and negative impacts on economies, societies, and political stability. As migration continues to be a major force in the 21st century, governments must find ways to manage it effectively and humanely.
