Russia Leads Global Illegal Migration with 12 Million Unauthorized Residents
Russia has the largest number of illegal migrants, with an estimated 12 million. The U.S. and Germany also have significant figures. Various motivations drive illegal migration, including economic hardships and family reunifications, although measures to address this have not been effective. The top ten countries with illegal migrants are listed, highlighting the global nature of this phenomenon.
Illegal migration remains a significant global issue, exacerbated by numerous factors. The World Economic Forum reports that approximately 272 million international migrants exist worldwide, accounting for 3.5% of the global population. Notably, Russia holds the highest number of illegal immigrants, with estimates around 12 million unauthorized residents. The United States and Germany also experience high levels of illegal migration, largely due to their attractive economic prospects and geopolitical positions.
The motivations for illegal migration are manifold, including economic hardship, political instability, environmental conditions, and family reunification. For instance, many individuals from Mexico migrate to the United States in search of improved economic opportunities, inspired by the alluring concept of the “American Dream.” Despite various strategies and measures implemented by nations to eradicate illegal migration, these efforts have proven largely ineffective over the years.
Former U.S. President Barack Obama stated, “We are and always will be a nation of immigrants. We were strangers once, too.” This sentiment is echoed by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), which asserts, “Migration is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be managed.” Such perspectives highlight the complexity of migration challenges globally.
The following is a list of the top ten countries exhibiting the largest populations of illegal migrants:
1. Russia – 12 million
2. United States – 11.4 million
3. India – 10 million
4. Bangladesh – 1.2 million
5. France – 1.2 million
6. Germany – 1 million
7. South Africa – 1 million
8. United Kingdom – 925,000
9. Malaysia – 900,000
10. Brazil – 700,000
In conclusion, illegal migration constitutes a multifaceted global challenge, with Russia leading in the number of illegal migrants at 12 million. Various factors, including economic conditions and political instability, drive migration patterns. Efforts to mitigate illegal immigration have been largely unsuccessful, further complicating the issue. Recognizing migration as a reality to manage rather than a problem to solve may be key to addressing the complexities associated with it.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
