ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS OF IMMIGRANTS
Immigrants move from one country to another for various reasons, such as better job opportunities, education, and quality of life. History has it that Europe’s infrastructure was developed by immigrants and foreign workforce after World War II. Likewise, Sergey Brin, an immigrant from the Soviet Union, boosted the US economy by creating Google, YouTube, and other significant platforms; To date, he has contributed over trillions of dollars.
According to MPR (Migration Policy Research), there are three dominant categories in which migrants can contribute:
- Sociocultural – Refers to cultural and social factors like traditions, habits, and beliefs.
- Civic-political – Solve problems in the area through government-backed organizations or volunteer for humanitarian work.
- Economic – Activity involving trade, money, or industry. Immigrants contribute to the global GDP.
Diverse Environment
Immigrants have a strong effect on the diversity and cultural values of a country. A diverse environment adds to the richness of the host country’s cultural tapestry and enhances the overall quality of life. Moreover, it breaks down cultural stereotypes and promotes greater understanding and tolerance between groups. Introducing new music, food, and art can aggrandize a nation’s economy and unite communities.
Promote Cohesion
Integration is a mandatory aspect of migration management. A successful cohesion between multicultural communities is based on different factors like human rights, respect, non-discrimination, and tolerance. Immigrants form close-knit connections with fellow nationals; these relations develop into formidable communities that support new entrants in the country.
Economic Contributions
Addressing labor shortage is one of the main economic contributions of immigrants. They can fill vacancies in industries such as healthcare, construction, and agriculture. In most countries, immigrants pay a huge amount of taxes that help boost the economy.
More Business Opportunities
According to research, immigrants are more avid to start new businesses than locals in the USA. Most migrants have founded firms of different sizes. Infact, immigration to the USA links to a net gain in job availability. As written by different authors, “Immigrants play a strong role in enhancing labor demand relative to labor supply, compared to the native population.”
Better Tax Collection
As immigrants work and earn income, they pay taxes, which helps to support public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Most immigrants are young and energetic; they can contribute to the workforce for extended periods. Addition of huge tax amounts to the economy can help support social welfare programs like social security and Medicare.
Creativity and Innovation
Immigrants can help raise the creativity bar in their respective countries. Many immigrants are skilled and educated with expertise in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Immigrants can bring new perspectives and ideas to their host country, leading to creative solutions and better growth.
Reduction in Demographic Challenges
Cultural differences are visible in developed countries like the USA, France, and Holland. Riots and communal discords can be seen on TV. However, these issues can be resolved amicably by a skilled labor force or an influx of experienced personnel from different states. Immigrants who can create a positive difference in society should be welcomed with open hands. They should intermingle with the locals and create a strong multicultural community that develops a progressive nation.
Immigrants are a vital source of development for a nation. Their efforts help boost the economy by creating more business opportunities and higher revenues. Research shows that the total number of immigrants in advanced nations has increased from 7 to 12 percent. So, migrating to another country is feasible, practical, and advantageous if you are skilled!
