Russia is the country with the largest number of illegal migrants, estimated at 12 million. The United States and Germany also have high illegal migration figures, driven by economic opportunities. Various factors contribute to illegal migration, and efforts to curb it have largely been unsuccessful. Key statistics reveal illegal migrant populations in several countries.
Illegal migration is an ongoing global challenge faced by many nations. The World Economic Forum estimates that there are approximately 272 million international migrants worldwide, representing about 3.5% of the global population. Within this context, Russia is highlighted as hosting the highest number of illegal immigrants, with estimates indicating around 12 million unauthorized residents.
Countries like the United States and Germany also experience substantial illegal migration, primarily due to their economic prospects and strategic geopolitical positions. The motivations for illegal migration are diverse, encompassing economic distress, political turmoil, environmental changes, and family reunification. Notably, many migrants from Mexico seek improved economic conditions in the United States, often inspired by the aspiration known as the “American Dream.”
Despite various initiatives implemented to deter illegal migration, these efforts have proven largely ineffective over the years. The sentiment echoed by former U.S. President Barack Obama, “We are and always will be a nation of immigrants. We were strangers once, too,” highlights the enduring nature of immigration. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) further emphasizes this perspective by stating, “Migration is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be managed.”
The following is a list of countries with the largest populations of illegal migrants: Russia (12 million), the United States (11.4 million), India (10 million), Bangladesh (1.2 million), France (1.2 million), Germany (1 million), South Africa (1 million), the United Kingdom (925,000), Malaysia (900,000), and Brazil (700,000).
In conclusion, illegal migration remains a significant and multifaceted issue affecting nations globally. Russia leads the world in the number of illegal immigrants, with the United States and Germany following closely. The complexities surrounding migration are driven by various pressing factors, and despite numerous measures taken by countries, the challenge endures. Understanding migration as a managed reality rather than a problem may pave the way for more effective policy approaches.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
