Why America’s Borders Remain Open Despite Social and Economic Challenges

Many argue that the United States should close its borders, particularly in light of significant social and economic challenges. However, the reality is far more complex than these arguments suggest. The openness of America's borders is intertwined with various economic, social, and political factors that make full closure not only impractical but also counterproductive.

Economic Dependency on Trade and Immigration

One of the primary reasons why America's borders remain open is the immense economic benefit derived from trade. Border towns are not just marginalized regions; they are vibrant hubs of commerce. The U.S. economy benefits greatly from the free flow of products between nations. Many U.S. states, particularly those bordering Mexico, have trade relationships that are more significant with their southern neighbors than with the rest of the United States. This dependency on cross-border trade is crucial for these regions' economic stability and growth.

The impact of border closure would be catastrophic. A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) suggests that a complete shut down of the U.S.-Mexico border could result in a substantial decline in GDP, with potential job losses totaling in the millions. Furthermore, the tourism industry, which is heavily reliant on cross-border travel, would also suffer greatly. The closure would not only hurt the local economies but also disrupt the broader national economy, leading to a ripple effect throughout the country.

Civil Liberties and Freedom of Movement

In addition to economic considerations, the issue of civil liberties plays a significant role in the decision to keep the borders open. The U.S. constitution enshrines the principle of liberty, which includes the freedom of movement. Restricting the free movement of peoples is a sensitive issue, as it touches on fundamental human rights and personal freedoms. The idea that borders could be closed to anyone, including those seeking asylum or relief from desperate circumstances, is not only impractical but also morally contentious.

Furthermore, the argument that closing the border would return to a previous state of security and stability must be scrutinized. The events of the early 21st century, particularly under the administrations of Donald Trump and Joe Biden, highlight the complexities of border policy. Trump's proposal to build a wall on the southern border was met with significant criticism and ultimately failed to achieve its intended purpose. Biden's attempt to open the borders fully to all, including immigrants with nefarious intentions, has led to a humanitarian crisis, with millions of dollars being spent on shelter and care for those coming into the country illegally.

Global Capital and Political Control

The idea that the U.S. government does not fully control its borders is a significant factor in understanding why they remain open. The truth is that the nation's economy is heavily influenced by international capital and political actors. Multinational corporations and international financial institutions have significant sway over border policy. They often prioritize trade and economic growth over political and social considerations. As a result, efforts to close the borders face significant resistance from both internal and external forces.

Moreover, political actors who benefit from the current system often use tactics such as political stunts, wars, and propaganda to maintain the status quo. For instance, the Biden administration has faced criticism for its handling of immigration policy, which has led to a surge in illegal immigrants. These individuals are often described by critics as criminals, drug dealers, and even terrorists. However, the reality is more nuanced. Many of these immigrants are simply seeking a better life and attempting to escape desperate conditions in their home countries.

Internationalists, many of whom hold influential positions in government and media, actively work to ensure that the borders remain open. They use various means, including misinformation and disinformation campaigns, to sway public opinion and resist efforts to close the borders. These efforts are motivated by a vision of a world where borders are meaningless, and free movement is considered a fundamental right.

The Role of Immigrants in the U.S. Economy

Perhaps the most compelling reason why the U.S. cannot close its borders is the critical role that immigrants play in the country's economy. Despite the recurring narratives of border closure, the truth is that the success of the U.S. economy is significantly dependent on the labor force of immigrants. Immigrants contribute to various sectors of the economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.

A study by the Pew Research Center indicates that immigrants are more likely to start businesses and create jobs than U.S.-born citizens. They also have a higher rate of entrepreneurship, with immigrants starting and running over 2.4 million businesses in the United States. In the case of agricultural sectors, the scarcity of labor due to strict immigration policies has been cited as a significant factor driving up food prices and reducing the availability of crops.

Immigrants also contribute to the demographic diversity that fuels the U.S. innovation economy. The tech industry, in particular, relies heavily on skilled workers from around the world. These individuals bring with them new ideas, perspectives, and innovative solutions that drive technological progress. Efforts to limit immigration could potentially stifle this innovation and hinder the U.S.'s global competitiveness in the long run.

Conclusion

While the idea of closing America's borders may seem appealing in the face of social and economic challenges, the reality is that such a move would be far more complicated and damaging than most realize. The economic benefits of trade, the fundamental rights of civil liberties, and the critical role of immigrants in the U.S. economy all point to the necessity of keeping the borders open. Efforts to close the borders will face significant opposition from both external and internal forces, and any attempt to do so would likely lead to unintended consequences, including economic downturns and increased political instability.