Illegal immigration is becoming a major issue for governments on both sides of the Atlantic. The dangerous maritime migration route between west Africa and the Canary Islands is seeing a resurgence, with around 30,000 people attempting the crossing so far in 2023. Germany, once friendly to asylum-seekers, is now cutting benefits and expediting deportations. Additionally, this year, more than half a million people may attempt to cross the Darién Gap, which links Colombia to Panama, in order to reach the United States.
While illegal immigration is grabbing headlines, there is also an increase in authorized migration. According to a recent report from the OECD, its 38 member countries accepted a record 6.1 million immigrants permanently last year. The Economist’s calculations show that immigration to rich countries is increasing at its fastest pace in the past 15 years. Around 10% of people living in OECD countries were not born there.
There are various factors pushing people to migrate and enticing them to Western countries. Conflict in Europe, the Middle East, and sub-Saharan Africa is causing millions to seek refuge elsewhere. Poverty, crime, and gang violence are also driving factors. On the other hand, the safety and relative prosperity of Western countries, along with tight labor markets, attract migrants who have the means to reach them. Over 70% of migrants in OECD countries are employed, and wages in the EU are over 12 times higher than in sub-Saharan Africa.
The number of people wishing to migrate is expected to grow in the coming years. Climate change could also contribute to an increase in migration, as well as the aging populations in rich countries, which will require more imported labor. Border officials are struggling to manage the situation, as migrants’ journeys become more complex and blur the distinction between refugees and other types of migrants. The issue of immigration remains a challenge for governments and societies worldwide.
