The problem of illegal migration
Reader comment on item: West Africa - Europe's New Border
in response to reader comment: how to solve the Canary Island problem

Submitted by Mary Connor (Australia), Dec 3, 2007 at 22:09

Most countries do not want illegal migration for the simple reason that most are overpopulated ,which is leading to water shortages (very severe in Australia and parts of the U.S.) and other symptoms of unsustainability, like loss of biodiversity, degradation of soils, pollution and green house gas emissions to say nothing of declining living standards.

Africa, where many of the would be migrants come from, is a resource rich country. If pro[perly managed it should be able to support it s approx. 700 million population in some kind of comfort. But first, Africans themselves have to realise that their reproduction must be limited to what they can afford. There must also be a recognition that instead of escaping, and many of their most educated people do just this, they should try and be a little altruistic and work and fight for better conditions for their people. It is in the interests of the "West" that they assist in making Africa more livable so that people do not want to leave home.

Aid should not be given in dollars (which often find their way in to Swiss bank accounts) but in helping to establish infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, businisses,. Copying Singapores policy re family size, i.e. rewards for small famillies of one or two,, refusal to accept professionals such as doctors from countries in which there is a shortage -most developing countries. But opportunities for education, but with strict controls for return to their country of origin, on completion of their courses, could also produce a wonderful 'leavening ' effect. I don't know what can be done to stop the tribal, sectarian and religious violence - I guess the 'people' coming to realise they will have a better life if they abandon these ways. And they should stop blaming the West for their misfortunes, although I do see a role for Western businesses to be more helpful and just to the local communities.

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