Reasons why people migrate

Reasons why people migrate

1. To escape past or future persecution based on race, religion, nationality, and/or membership in a particular social group or political opinion

   • In most countries, and in the United States, families and individuals who meet this criteria may obtain refugee status or asylum. Now, here’s the difference: refugees must secure their status prior to entering the country of choice, where as asylum seekers seek status upon arrival. A complex differentiation that causes a lot of confusion in the process to get people to safety.

2. To escape conflict or violence

   • In many countries, but not the United States, families and individuals who immigrate to escape conflicts like war and violence can be considered for refugee status or asylum.

3. To find refuge after being displaced due to environmental factors

   • Natural disasters, erosion, and other environmental factors caused by climate change are real threats that disproportionately affect people living in poverty. In fact, Christian Aid reports that 1 billion people could be displaced in the next 50 years as the effects of climate change worsen. People who fit this description are dubbed climate “refugees,” but the name does not necessarily imply they have, or can receive, refugee status. As this is a newer phenomenon, many countries are still trying to determine how to respond to this growing issue.

4. To seek superior healthcare

   • a country with limited access to seek healthcare when their suffering from serious health problems.

5. To escape poverty

6. To offer more opportunities to children

   • so their children can benefit from things like superior education, and plentiful job opportunities.

7. Family reunification

8. For educational purposes

   • Some study abroad to seek out better educational opportunities than are available in their own countries, while others simply want the thrill of living in an exciting, new place.

9. For jobs and business opportunities

10. Marriage

11. just because