b'IMMIGRATION POLICYIMMIGRATION UNDER FIRE?By James P. Egan, EY Law LLPReflections on changes in public attitudes towards immigration P ublic trust in immigration policyin line with theirs. The consequence is aNations Convention on Refugees defined has eroded significantly in recentchasm of trust that, if not addressed, maya refugee as a person deserving sanctuary years. As public opinion drivessignal a looming change in the scope andand protection if owing to a well-founded policy, business could be detri- purpose of immigration programs thefear of being persecuted for reasons of mentally impacted by pressuresworld over. race, religion, nationality, membership on government to moderate immigrationof a particular social group or political programs. The capacity of business toWhat is driving this change in attitude?opinion is credibly unable or unwilling seek the best talent, the most compellingConsider first the external factors. War,to return to his/her country of origin or experiences for its people, or to recruitclimate change, famine, criminal gangs,nationality. What the Convention does abroad, competitive advantage and marketand the concurrent rise of a series ofnot recognize as valid grounds for protec-penetration can suffer.collapsing or failed states have driven thetion are economic migrants, meaning displacement of unprecedented numbersthose whose principal grounds for seeking The disconnect is evident further whenof people. Statistics released by the OECDprotection is the desire to improve their governments appear overwhelmed or ill- state that 6.1 million people moved to itsfinancial position or prospects.equipped to manage the programs they38 member states from those outside the establish, or the borders they oversee. IfOECD in 2022, a 26 per cent increaseTo the growing frustration of public programs are administered ineffectivelyfrom 2021. opinion, however, an increasing number or cavalierly, confidence is strained.of those seeking asylum chase economic An increasing number of voters believeThere is a framework for assessing theenhancement rather than Convention-governments no longer have prioritiesclaims of displaced people. The Uniteddefined refugee sanctuary. However 18PERSPECTIVESSummer 2024'