Illegal immigration has distinct foreign policy dimensions --the "push" factor that leads immigrants to leave their countries in the first place has been entirely overlooked. Overhauling the U.S. regime for legal immigration has received insufficient attention --a necessary task if the United States is to continue attracting talented immigrants and maintain a technological and economic lead in the world.
This report examines immigration into the United States in a foreign policy context. It broadens the debate by analyzing issues of economic competitiveness, terrorism and national security, human rights, and public diplomacy in the context of globalization. The report then offers recommendations for a twentyfirst-century immigration policy that serves U.S. economic, diplomatic, and national security interests.