1.2 Migration Case Studies

Question 1

Mexico to USA: Reasons for migration?

Answer 1

1. Much higher average incomes in the USA
2. Lower unemployment rates in the USA.
3. The faster growth of the labour force in Mexico, with significantly higher population growth in Mexico than in the USA.
4. The overall quality of life: on virtually every aspect of the quality of life conditions are better in the USA than in Mexico.

Question 2

Mexico to USA: Most migration has taken place in..?

Answer 2

The last three decades, although previous surges occurred in the 1920s and 1950s.

Question 3

Mexico to USA: There is a very strong concentration of the US Mexican population in what four states?

Answer 3

The four along the Mexican border - California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.

Question 4

Mexico to USA: The main reasons for this spatial distribution..?

Answer 4

1. Close proximity to the border.
2. The location of demand for immigrant farm workers.
3. Urban areas where the Mexican community is long-established.

Question 5

Mexico to USA: In the last year or so there is evidence that this migration has gone into reverse, reasons being:

Answer 5

1. Tougher economic conditions in the USA have made migration less attractive.
2. The US Border Patrol has made illegal immigration much more difficult to achieve.

Question 6

Mexico to USA: the Federation for American Immigration Reform has opposed large-scale immigration from Mexico, arguing that it:

Answer 6

1. Undermines the employment opportunities of low-skilled US workers.
2. Has negative environmental effects because of the increased population.
3. Threatens established US cultural values.

Question 7

Mexico to USA: The impacts on Mexico include:

Answer 7

1. The high value of remittances, which totalled over $22 billion in 2011 - this is the world’s biggest flow of remittances and as a national source of income for Mexico is only exceeded by its oil exports.
2. Reduced unemployment pressure as migrants tend to leave areas where unemployment is particularly high.
3. Lower pressure on housing stock and public services.
4. Changes in population structure with emigration of young adults, particularly males.
5. Loss of skilled and enterprising people.
6. Migrants returning to Mexico with changed values and attitudes.