Global Hazards and Border Policy

In a world of uncertainty and peril, the top three global hazards are nuclear proliferation, ocean contamination, and financial collapse. Eight sovereign states are currently known to possess nuclear weapons, with Israel widely regarded as the ninth. States with high industrial capacity that are embroiled in frequent military conflict are the most likely to pursue nuclear capability (Singh & Way, 2004, p. 19), and as technology advances, the use of small nuclear devices by terrorist organizations becomes more likely. A recent study used statistical analysis to determine the best deterrents of further proliferation. These are 1. Military alliance with a great power. 2. Increase in trade openness. 3. Increase in per capita GDP (Singh & Way, 2004, p. 19).

The industrial byproducts, chemical contaminants and other waste that is now common to many waters create oceanic ‘dead zones’ where marine life cannot exist. There is no denying human culpability in this matter “…the degree of coastal/estuarine pollution is directly proportional to human population density and the extent of industrialization…” (Sindermann, 1996, p. 1). Many solutions exist. 1. Reduce waste by reusing bags and recycling. 2. Regulate the use and disposal of contaminants in industry. 3. Reduce dependence on offshore drilling through the use of renewable energy.

At first glance the idea of global financial collapse might appear to be a hazard on the national level. Yet the economic power of the U.S. Dollar means that its stability is indeed a global concern. As a purely fiat currency with no backing in precious metals, the dollar is vulnerable to runaway inflation and loss of value. Possible solutions to this hazard include regulation of speculative activity in financial institutions, higher demands for bank liquidity, and the return of the bimetallic gold/silver standard.

In this briefing on immigration policy, the Senator should be made aware that many aspects of current U.S. immigration policy are known to be harmful in terms of cost and human life. The long-running policy of shoring up common entry points for illegal immigrants has led these immigrants to attempt traversing more dangerous terrain, where they are less likely to be apprehended, and more likely to die. “Following the implementation of Operations Blockade and Gatekeeper in 1993 and 1994, however, the rate of death from suffocation, drowning, heat, cold, and unknown causes increased threefold…” (Durand & Massey, 2003, p. 240). This approach has damaged relations with Mexico and prevents arrests. The Senator should consider methods of border security other than military-style enforcement, such as electronic identification and high-tech tracking methods.

The Senator should carefully consider the findings of The Independent Task Force on US Immigration Policy. A balanced approach to immigration policy is crucial to solving the problems we face on our borders. An open attitude toward immigration might result in weak borders through which cartel activity and even terrorists will be able to pass undetected. A reactionary policy will drain resources and damage the global image of the U.S. as a place of openness and opportunity.

The Task Force concluded that new policies should attract talented foreign students to U.S. schools and companies. Furthermore, it recommends a statistical approach to temporary and permanent allowances for low-skilled worker entrance. These numbers will be determined by metrics concerning the needs of U.S. industry and business (Bush & McLarty, 2009, p. 63). Another strategy for border policy is strict penalties for businesses found to intentionally hire illegal immigrants. Together, these suggestions will begin to improve our border dilemma.

References

Bush, J., & McLarty, T. F. (2009). us immigration policy. Council on Foreign Relations, 63. Retrieved from www.cfr.org

Durand, J., & Massey, D. S. (2003). The costs of contradiction. Latino Studies, 1, 233-252.

Sindermann, C. J. (1996). Ocean pollution. CRC Press Inc.

Singh, S., & Way, C. R. (2004). The correlates of nuclear proliferation. Journal of Conflict Resolution, 48(859).