Globalization, Poverty, Migration, Human Rights

Should we have open borders? Is freedom of movement for survival a

human right?

What is Globalization?

The interconnectedness of nations – economically and technologically.

The phenomenon by which a company in one part of the world can use labor in another part of the world – for instance, Nike using workers in Thailand to manufacture its shoes.

The phenomenon that some say creates great inequalities of wealth and others say provides opportunities for “poor” nations.

What are “Open Borders”?

Freedom of movement across national boundaries.

Easy access to employment opportunities in countries other than one’s own.

Unimpeded mobility that is the human right of people seeking to survive and provide for their families.

The ease with which people from wealthy nations travel the world.

Why are “Open Borders” Undesirable?

Violates the sovereignty of nations. Against the law to violate the borders of a

nation. Every nation has to look out first for “its own.” The resources of a nation are limited. Undocumented workers place a strain on the

resources of a country. Poor countries have to address their economic

problems and not expect wealthy nations to take care of them.

“Illegal Alien” versus “Undocumented Worker”: Human Rights Lou Dobbs: “Calling an ‘illegal alien’ an

‘undocumented worker’ is like calling a ‘burglar’ an ‘uninvited house guest.’”

What are the rights of immigrants? It used to be that you were constrained by

“who you were born as”; now you are constrained by “where you are born.”

Joe Arpaio: When you break the law, you have no rights.

Are there unjust laws?