Illegal immigration is defined as the migration of people into a country in violation of that country’s immigration laws or the continuous residence in that country without the legal right to live there. It is the act of entering, residing, or working in a country without the necessary legal authorization or documentation from the government of that country. Illegal immigration typically moves money from poorer to richer countries. It is frequently a contentious and complicated issue with economic, social, and political ramifications. Illegally residing in another country puts you at risk of detention, deportation, and/or other penalties.
If the home country refuses to accept the person or if new asylum evidence emerges after the decision, asylum seekers who have been denied asylum may face an impediment to expulsion. These people are sometimes referred to as undocumented immigrants. In others, they may be granted a temporary residence permit, for example, in accordance with the International Refugee Convention’s principle of non-refoulement.
Here are some key points to consider when discussing illegal immigration:
- Motivations: People often illegally immigrate for a variety of reasons, such as better economic opportunities, fleeing violence or persecution in their home countries, reuniting with family members, or simply seeking a better quality of life.
- Methods: Illegal immigrants may enter a country without authorization through a variety of means, including illegal border crossings, overstaying visas, or using fraudulent documents.
- Humanitarian Concerns: Some argue that addressing illegal immigration should include humanitarian considerations such as providing refuge to those fleeing violence or persecution, particularly if they lack access to legal channels for seeking asylum.
- Economic Impact: The economic impact of illegal immigration is a topic of debate. Some argue that illegal immigrants contribute to the economy by filling low-skilled job vacancies, paying taxes, and contributing to economic growth. Others contend that they strain public resources and depress wages for native workers.
- Security Concerns: Governments often raise concerns about national security and public safety regarding illegal immigration. They may argue that unregulated immigration can make it easier for criminals and terrorists to enter the country.
- Legal Consequences: In many countries, illegal immigration is a violation of immigration laws and can lead to various legal consequences, including deportation, fines, or imprisonment.
- Immigration Policies: Different countries have varying immigration policies and enforcement approaches. Some focus on strict border control and deportation, while others may adopt more lenient or humanitarian policies.
In a number of indicative judgments, the European Court of Human Rights has demonstrated, citing the European Convention on Human Rights, that there are enforcement barriers to expulsion to certain countries, for example, due to the risk of torture.
Illegal immigration debates are complex, with no one-size-fits-all solution. Addressing the issue frequently entails striking a balance between humanitarian concerns, economic concerns, and national security interests, all while upholding the rule of law. Countries frequently struggle with developing and enforcing immigration policies that reflect their values while also addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration.
