Tanin Ashtari HISTORY[1]

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Feb 20, 2024

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Moein Ashtari HIST 2110 Professor Rostamian 10 March 2023 Research Question: Why has the number of refugees been restricted drastically since the 1980s? Refugees and their families are an essential part of American culture. However, they are increasingly deferred or denied due to the government changing immigration laws since the 1980s. The research question, "Why has the number of refugees been substantially reduced since the 1980s?" is very important because it highlights the numerous political and social forces that have contributed to this situation. This paper aims to explore the reasons behind the decline in refugee admissions in the United States and how the number of refugees has been restricted drastically since the 1980s. Due to changes in immigration laws, security concerns, and the country's shift in attitude towards refugees, prioritizing economic and political benefits over humanitarian crises. Two primary sources that provide evidence to support this thesis statement are the Refugee Act of 1980 and the Immigration Act of 1990. These pieces of legislation represent significant changes in U.S. immigration policy, with

the former creating a process for accepting refugees and the latter increasing legal immigration. However, despite these changes, the US government's actions have ultimately resulted in a significant reduction in the number of refugees admitted to the country. For example, the government has implemented more stringent security measures and screening procedures, which have made it more difficult for refugees to gain entry. Additionally, the government has shifted its focus toward prioritizing economic and political benefits over humanitarian crises, which has led to a decreased emphasis on refugee admissions (Martin, 2010). Two secondary sources that provide insight into this topic are David Fitzgerald's "Refuge beyond Reach: How Rich Democracies Repel Asylum Seekers" and Susan F. Martin's "The Paradox of US Refugee Policy: A Bureaucratic and Political Dilemma." Fitzgerald argues that despite their legal obligation to do so, asylum seekers are discouraged from seeking asylum because wealthy democracies, such as the U.S., have laws in place that prevent them (Fitzgerald, 2009). On the other hand, Martin argues that the US government's inconsistency in its refugee policy has emerged due to its bureaucratic structure and political divisions. Although the United States has a history of accepting refugees, doing so has grown more challenging due to political restrictions and bureaucratic procedures (Martin, 2010).

On the other hand, some individuals may argue that the reduction in refugee admissions is necessary to ensure national security and prevent potential threats from entering the country. They may also argue that the US should prioritize its own citizens and their needs over those of refugees. While these arguments have some merit, they fail to account for the fact that many refugees are fleeing persecution, violence, and other forms of harm in their home countries. By denying them the opportunity to seek asylum in the US, the government is effectively turning its back on those who are most in need of protection. Additionally, the security concerns that have been raised can be addressed through the implementation of appropriate screening measures, rather than a blanket restriction on refugee admissions. Overall, while there may be differing opinions on this issue, it is important to recognize that the reduction in refugee admissions has had a significant impact on individuals and families who are in desperate need of assistance. In conclusion, the decline in refugee admissions in the United States has been driven by a combination of factors, including changes in immigration laws, security concerns, and a shift in the country's attitude towards refugees. While some may argue that the reduction in admissions is necessary for national security, it is important to remember that many refugees are fleeing violence and persecution and are in desperate need of protection. Therefore, it is crucial that the US government work towards

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creating policies that balance the need for security with the need to provide assistance to those who are most in need of protection (Fitzgerald, 2009). Works Cited FitzGerald, David Scott. “How Rich Democracies Repel Asylum Seekers.” Academic.oup.com, 2019. https://academic.oup.com/book/25655.

Tanin Ashtari HISTORY[1]

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