Migration: A Historical and Contemporary Perspective

Migration has been a central theme in global politics over the last decade, though it is not a recent phenomenon. Historically, migration has been a norm for humanity, with individuals migrating at various points in time. However, recent decades have seen a unique form of migration influenced by neoliberalism and globalization.

Factors Influencing Recent Migration

• Neoliberalism and Globalization:
  • Post-Cold War era saw the globalization of free markets, affecting both capital and human movement.
  • The rise of service economies and informational capitalism increased demand for skilled labor in developed countries.
• H1-B Program:
  • Launched in 1990, it provided opportunities for skilled workers from developing countries, especially India, to work in the U.S.
• Lopsided Immigration Picture:
  • The focus is often on skilled migrants from middle/upper-middle-class backgrounds in Anglophone countries.
  • Significant migration also occurred to Gulf petro-states by both skilled and unskilled workers from South and Southeast Asia.
• Undocumented Migration:
  • Includes migration from Central and South America to the U.S., and from North Africa to Europe, often resulting in anti-immigrant politics in the global North.

Historical Cycles of Migration

• Post-World War II, Europe required cheap labor for rebuilding, leading to migration from former colonies.
• Racist backlash occurred, leading to policies restricting mobility, similar to today's immigration cycles.

Impact of Domestic and Global Politics

• Domestic Migration:
  • Hatred against migrants within countries, like UP and Bihar migrants in Punjab, parallels external migration issues.
• Global Politics:
  • The logic of industrial capitalism has paradoxically increased both immigration and xenophobia.

The Future of Migration

• Current Trends:
  • Countries like the U.S. are restricting migration, whereas others like Japan, with falling birth rates, are welcoming migrants.
• Challenges Ahead:
  • Climate change may lead to forced migration, permanently affecting societies and economies.