Migration and Border Security: The Military's Role CSL Issue Paper, Volume 15-09, October 2009)
Abstract
With the world's population in constant motion, migration is an everyday reality. Much of this movement is voluntary, such as the surges at the end of World War II and following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Major natural disasters or fluctuations in the world's economies also greatly influence human movement. In most circumstances, migration is initiated in search of a better life, perceived or real. According to the United Nations International Migration Report, 2002, between 1970 and 2002 the global number of migrants more than doubled, and continues to increase. This increased migration flow offers both opportunities and complications for governments. It is no surprise that most migration is from the developing to the developed world. So called "brain drains" benefit the receiving countries, but uncontrolled influxes of labor can stress existing social support infrastructure and increase nationalistic tensions. Managing this movement of people requires an integrated effort at the international, regional, and national levels. The absence of integrated border management (IBM) protocols opens the door to trafficking in human beings, transnational narco-crime, smuggling, and terrorism; all of which pose direct threats to government stability. Establishing effective IBM is both resource intensive and politically sensitive. It is sensitive because governments tend to react as if they are dealing with things and statistics rather than people. Misdirected efforts cause backlash at both the national and international levels. It is resource intensive because most borders are porous.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA510355
Entities
People
- Bernard F. Griffard
- Bert B. Tussing
Organizations
- United States Army War College