As large groups of migrants at the Southern Border arriving in busloads hits a 10-year high, this presents logistical problems in processing them, evaluating their claims, admitting Migrants for asylum hearings, and planning to deport those who do not qualify. Although very complex, we do believe this is a manageable humanitarian and logistical problem. It should be managed in an orderly and scripturally balanced way that treats Migrants humanely as created in God’s Image, respects their rights, and respects the rule of law (Luke 10:25-37; Romans 13:1-7). Below is our 5-Step Solution to the Migrant Crisis along the Southern Border.
1. Invest in Resources. Invest resources to independent immigration judges who will consider claims for asylum fairly and accept or reject them quickly. Invest in case workers to review and process visa applications and asylum petition. There’s a current 700,000 plus visa backlog.
2. Increase Foreign Aid. Increase U.S. foreign aid to invest in the economic and social rebuilding of Central American countries. Increase U.S. foreign aid to establish Refugee processing centers so people are not forced to make the dangerous journey to apply for asylum.
3. Foreign Aid Accountability. In 2017, Honduras received $175 million, El Salvador received $115, Guatemala received $249 million, and Mexico received $320 million of U.S. foreign aid in the 2017 year. With all this aid money, we need stronger accountability, public availability of information and data on programs, analytic methodologies, and consistent evaluations. Latin-American countries need accountability from the U.S. to better build their economy for their people to thrive with opportunity in the countries.
4. Secure the Border. Ensuring that threats to our national security do not cross our borders must always be a national priority. We must: 1. Develop new Border security metrics. 2. Provide additional infrastructure and personnel at ports of entry. 3.Require additional training and oversight of CBP. 4. Put a Border wall in needed places. 5. Enhance our technology along the Border.
5. Detention Alternatives. DHS reports that family incarceration costs 60 times more than placing a family member in alternative to detention (ATD). ATDs would include GPS monitoring devices, in-person/telephone check-ins, and case management which is 95% effective. ICE’s family case management program ensuring families appear in court had a 99% compliance rate.