Russia has the highest number of illegal migrants globally, with approximately 12 million unauthorized residents. Other countries, such as the United States and Germany, also see significant illegal migration driven by various factors including economic opportunities. Despite numerous strategies to curb illegal migration, efforts have largely been ineffective over the years. The International Organisation for Migration emphasizes that migration should be managed as a reality.
Illegal migration represents a multifaceted challenge faced by numerous countries. As reported by the World Economic Forum, there are approximately 272 million international migrants, constituting 3.5% of the global population. Notably, Russia leads the world in the number of illegal immigrants, with estimates indicating around 12 million unauthorized residents within its borders.
In addition to Russia, the United States and Germany also experience considerable influxes of illegal migrants, attracted by economic prospects and their geopolitical significance. Drivers of illegal migration include economic hardship, political unrest, environmental challenges, and the desire for family reunification, exemplified by many Mexicans migrating to the United States in pursuit of better opportunities, often influenced by the allure of the “American Dream.”
Despite ongoing attempts by various nations to curtail illegal migration through diverse strategies, these efforts have yielded limited success over time. The sentiment echoed by former U.S. President Barack Obama reinforces this idea: “We are and always will be a nation of immigrants. We were strangers once, too.” This perspective aligns with the view of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), stating that “Migration is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be managed.”
The following is a list of ten countries with 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, Russia stands out as the leading country housing the highest number of illegal migrants, followed closely by the United States and India. The driving forces behind migration include economic, political, and environmental factors. Despite efforts to combat illegal migration, the situation continues to present complexities for nations worldwide. Understanding migration as a reality to be managed, rather than merely a problem, remains essential for policy formulation.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
