The No Nonsense Guide to International Migration

The No-Nonsense Guide to International Migration unravels the global migration paradox, explaining the economic and social issues behind the flows of humans. Virtually any commodity can move around the world to satisfy demand but human beings have far less freedom. Many would-be migrants are forced to risk life and limb traveling illegally. Yet most rich countries are short of workers, have shrinking populations and need more immigrants. This is a timely guide to a major issue which incites strong opinions and is never far from the political headlines. Giving an up-to-date analysis of the current situation, this book aims to explode some of the myths about the motives of migrants.

Goods and money can move easily in free markets, but not people. Almost every day there are news reports of would-be migrants locked in cargo holds, foundering in small boats or discovered in trucks. If they survive to reach their destination, they often face a hostile reception by citizens of the host country. People migrate for many reasons. Often, they have few opportunities at home, and so may be lured by promises of work in rich countries seeking cheap labor. The No-Nonsense Guide to International Migration looks at all the issues, from who migrates and why, to the benefits for both the country of origin and the country where they end up.