The Causes and Impacts of Illegal Immigration

Introduction

The issue of immigration has become a global concern due to the increasing number of immigrants in developed nations (Williams, p. 83). Immigrants are divided into two categories: legal immigrants, who obtain permission from the government to settle in a different country, and illegal immigrants, who enter a country without seeking permission (Williams, p. 83). The United States has been particularly affected by illegal immigration. This essay will explore the causes of illegal immigration and the pros and cons associated with it.

The Possible Causes of Immigration

Various factors contribute to the decision to immigrate, and these reasons vary from region to region. One common cause of immigration is political unrest, often leading to wars. Political elections can result in governance issues, and when these issues escalate into wars, people seek refuge in other countries in search of peace (Swanson, p. 1). Additionally, unfavorable climatic conditions, such as floods or droughts, can make a region uninhabitable, forcing people to migrate. Other reasons for immigration include travel, business opportunities, poverty, and the pursuit of freedom and rights (Swanson, p. 1).

Pros and Cons of Illegal Immigrants

The presence of illegal immigrants has both positive and negative impacts on the economy, social aspects, and labor market of the host country. Citizens of the host nation often complain that illegal immigrants burden public goods and services. For example, overcrowding in schools and the overburdening of social amenities can lead to a decrease in the quality of services provided. However, in certain sectors such as farming, landscaping, garment factories, and restaurants, the presence of illegal immigrants can be beneficial as they provide cheap labor, leading to increased profits (Legrain).

Illegal immigrants have been found to strain government finances, as they are entitled to services similar to legal residents (Theresa). However, they pay proportionately fewer taxes, making it difficult to sustain desirable programs for legal residents. The cost of healthcare, criminal justice, and court proceedings also increases due to illegal immigrants (Theresa). On the other hand, illegal immigration has led to lower prices for consumers. When the wages of low-skilled workers decrease, products such as meals in restaurants and farm products become more affordable (Theresa).

Conclusion

While illegal immigrants do have negative impacts on the countries they settle in, it is important to consider the positive impacts as well. Most of these immigrants do not choose to be in their current situation, but are forced to migrate due to various circumstances. Therefore, they should not be despised, but rather, their situation should be understood and addressed.

Works Cited

1. Borjas, George. “The Economics of Immigration.” Journal of Economic Literature. 32.1 (1994): 1667-1717.
2. Legrain, Philippe. Immigrants: Your Country Needs Them. London: Little Brown, 2007. Print.
3. Swanson, Marisa. The causes and effects of Immigration. eHow. 1999.
4. Theresa, Hayter, Open Borders: The Case Against Immigration Controls, London: Pluto Press, 2000. Print.
5. Williams, Mary. Immigration. San Diego: Greenhaven Press, 2004. Print.