Are We There Yet? Using the Push-Pull Theory to Address Latin American Migration to the U.S. During COVID-19
Abstract
For decades, the U.S. policy on immigration from Latin America has focused exclusively on preventing illegal immigration. Such a one-sided approach has exasperated the U.S. immigration situation rather than helped those in power understand and address the underlying reasons why so many are willing to take the associated risks. The inability to assess Latin American countries' needs demonstrates the disconnect between policy and implementation of U.S. departments and agencies programs to increase capacity and stability. Adopting the "push-pull" theory as a framework for understanding why people risk their lives to immigrate to the U.S. illegally will help policymakers understand the strategic environment and enable strategists to design approaches that help the U.S., its allies and partners to mitigate the underlying problems. The study provides background on U.S. interests in Latin America due to geography, economy, and security with historical references of immigration policy across five administrations as the context and consequence of U.S. presidents over time. The Biden Administration is at an inflection point with immigration and a global health crisis. The U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability provides the approach to assist leaders on immigration.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 28, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1154025
Entities
People
- Johari J Hemphill
Organizations
- National Defense University