The United States' recent declaration of a \"national emergency\" at its southern border and the subsequent halt of illegal immigration have propelled the immigration issue to the forefront of domestic politics. A global online poll conducted by CGTN has revealed widespread concern over the U.S. government's approach to addressing illegal immigration, with many perceiving immigrants as scapegoats for governance inefficiencies.
According to the poll, which garnered over 6,178 responses within 24 hours across CGTN's English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian platforms, 63.9% of respondents expressed deep concern over U.S. President Donald Trump's statements about deploying the military to carry out large-scale deportations of illegal immigrants. The hardline stance has sparked fears of escalating tensions and human rights violations.
The United States has historically thrived due to the contributions of immigrants. However, recent policies have been criticized as disgraceful, with reports of violent law enforcement, illegal employment of child migrant labor, and incidents causing migrant injuries and deaths becoming alarmingly frequent. An overwhelming 86.2% of poll participants believe that the U.S. government has systematically violated human rights in its handling of immigration issues.
Furthermore, 80.2% of respondents are calling on the U.S. government to provide fair and reasonable treatment to immigrants. They argue that violent expulsion and suppression will only exacerbate immigration challenges and may trigger racial discrimination and social division.
Immigrants have also become casualties of the increasing partisanship and political polarization in American society. U.S. immigration policy has swung dramatically with changes in administration, leading to inconsistent approaches that leave immigrants in limbo. In stark contrast to the previous government, the new administration's hardline policies have drawn criticism for being indifferent and irresponsible.
The poll indicates that 86.6% of respondents believe both major parties in the U.S. are leveraging the immigration issue to achieve political goals rather than genuinely addressing the plight of immigrants. Additionally, 81.4% feel that the government's inconsistent policies have made life difficult for most immigrants.
Amid widening political polarization and a growing wealth gap, immigrants are often unfairly labeled as \"job thieves\" or \"terrorists.\" A significant 82.9% of respondents are skeptical of claims that immigrants have adversely impacted U.S. society, viewing them instead as scapegoats for poor governance. Furthermore, 82.6% express concern that ongoing partisan confrontation over immigration will deepen social divisions.
The findings of the CGTN poll highlight global apprehension regarding the U.S. approach to immigration. As the debate continues, many are urging the U.S. government to adopt more humane and consistent policies that address the root causes of immigration without infringing on human rights.
Reference(s):
CGTN Poll: Immigration issue used to obscure poor governance in U.S.
cgtn.com
