WHAT ARE BARRIERS TO MIGRATION?

Personal Barriers

• Many people can't afford applications for an entry visa or plane ticket.
• Leaving relatives behind is an emotional barrier.
• Immigrants often need sponsors to provide for them until they get a job.
• Barriers to migration can discourage or prevent a person from migrating.
• Government immigration and refugee policies act as major barriers.

A Dangerous Journey: Refugees Flee Afghanistan

• Afghanistan is a top source of refugees because of the Taliban.
• The refugees fleeing oppressive rule of the Taliban seek refuge from political upheaval.
• They also seek refuge from civil war.
• Without a entry visa or passport you cannot enter a country legally.
• Refugees going to Pakistan on foot go through the mountains.

National Barriers

• Physical and political factors present major obstacles to migration.
• Physical: two countries far apart, or separated by mountains or deserts.
• Physical separation makes it difficult and dangerous to migrate.
• Greatest national barrier is political policy.
• Ex. A command society might not let someone leave their country.

National Barriers

• This occured in Russia and Eastern Europe between 1945-1989.
• Before 1967 Canada accepted few immigrants from other than Europe amd the U.S.
• The same year a points system was created.
• The "test" based on language skills in English or French, education, and useful work expeirence.
• Also based on age and sponsorship by resident.

Legal Barriers

• Migration within and between countries regulated be international laws.
• United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights includes freedom.
• 1951-UN expanded statements in Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.
• When refugees come to Canada declared refugee status under Convention.
• Allowed to stay in Canada until case presented at legal hearing.

Legal Barriers

• If decided that family can safely return they are sent back or deported.
• On average Canada accept 15000-50000 refugees each year.
• To successful refugees Canada is accessible.
• To unsuccessful refugees they must leave but are free to reapply.

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