Mahmoud Said Kawash
2026 / 10 / 6
MIGRATION
By Mahmoud Said Kawash
Migration... one of the most significant and critical issues facing Arab and Islamic societies, as well as Third World nations!
Definition – Causes – Consequences – Types – Most welcoming countries – Negative impacts
Every year, many people—particularly from the Arab world, the Islamic world, and Third World nations—leave their home countries and lands for other nations. These destinations often differ from their homelands in terms of culture, customs, and social traditions. Consequently, migrants are compelled to adapt to life in their new society—especially if they intend to settle there permanently following the long journey from their home country. This process, which leads to individuals permanently settling in a new country, is known as migration.
Definition of Migration
Linguistically, the term "migration" (*hijra*) is derived from the Arabic root *hajara*, meaning to depart from a place´-or-to abandon something. In a general sense, migration is defined as the movement of individuals from one location to another with the aim of settling in the new location. In terms of terminology, migration is defined as the act of leaving one s home country to settle in another. It involves the movement of individuals—either singly´-or-in groups—from their place of origin to a new homeland. Various circumstances often drive migration, such as the outbreak of civil´-or-international conflicts´-or-poor economic conditions, which serve as key catalysts. Host countries implement legal and legislative mechanisms designed to ensure the protection and full respect of migrants rights. According to the 2013 global migration census, the number of people who had migrated from their countries of origin reached 247 million.
Causes of Migration
Several factors drive migration, including: seeking better employment opportunities than those available previously—often the primary objective for leaving one s home country-;- fleeing conflict in nations plagued by persistent warfare-;- seeking political´-or-humanitarian asylum due to intellectual, religious,´-or-social persecution-;- and escaping natural disasters, such as disease outbreaks, famines, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions.
Consequences of Migration
Migration entails a range of consequences, including:
Political Consequences
These are outcomes that -dir-ectly affect the countries receiving migrants-;- It contributes to altering the general political landscape and necessitates the integration of migrants into society by granting them privileges typically reserved for ordinary citizens. This influences the prevailing political mindset within these nations, making them more receptive to incorporating migrants into their populations.
Economic Consequences
These are among the most significant impacts on host countries-;- economies are noticeably affected as migrant numbers rise. This manifests in increased demand for basic commodities, ultimately compelling nations to seek economic support—often through foreign aid—to cover the costs associated with hosting migrants. Low-income populations within these host countries are particularly vulnerable to the economic shifts accompanying migration.
Types of Migration
Migration is categorized into several types, including:
Internal Migration:
The movement of people from one region to another within their own country—that is, within national borders. A common example is rural-to-urban migration.
External Migration:
The movement of individuals out of their home country—crossing national borders—to another nation, whether nearby´-or-distant from their country of origin.
Clandestine Migration:
This is one of the most dangerous forms of migration, as it involves secretly fleeing from one country to another without the use of identification documents´-or-any official paperwork. Such migration often results in severe negative consequences for the migrants, such as arrest´-or-the endangerment of their lives—risks that can ultimately lead to death.
Conclusion
In general, individuals seek a better life-;- consequently, most choose to migrate to new countries and locations that offer the prospect of an improved standard of living,´-or-to escape political turmoil and war. However, migration can have various impacts on both the migrants and their destination countries. For some individuals, the experience is marked by the difficulty of adapting to life in the new country—particularly due to cultural and social differences—and many migrants find themselves-limit-ed to arduous jobs characterized by long hours, low wages, and harsh working conditions.
Migration also affects densely populated countries, leading to increased rates of unemployment and poverty, as well as political and economic repercussions that negatively impact national income levels. However, this impact varies, depending on the specific economic and political conditions of the countries involved. Countries characterized by economic and political stability are the best destinations for immigrants.
Migration falls into several categories, each with a distinct impact on the migrant. Internal migration, for instance, has a less significant impact compared to international migration, which entails high financial costs. When the necessary funds for legal migration cannot be secured, individuals may resort to clandestine migration—often via illegal means—which frequently leads to negative consequences for the migrants.
Countries Most Welcoming to Immigrants
The Russian website "FB.ru" has published a list of countries where immigration is relatively easy:
The Russian website "FB.ru" published a report detailing countries that facilitate immigration and do not impose overly strict procedures.
The report identified Canada as one of the most welcoming nations for visitors. Despite its harsh climate, the high standard of living the country offers serves as a compelling incentive for choosing it as a destination.
Notably, the Canadian government has made an online assessment available-;- passing this test guarantees eligibility to immigrate to the country. The assessment evaluates factors such as education level, professional specialization, and work experience, as well as proficiency in English and French and the presence of relatives in Canada.
The website also noted that Mexico attracts immigrants thanks to its warm climate and natural beauty, even though it is not considered a safe country. In general, Mexico is known for chocolate, chili peppers, and corn.
Obtaining a specific type of visa is one of the easier ways to immigrate to the country. The visa issued by the country is valid for six months and can be renewed at any time. Working in Mexico requires a temporary residence permit.
The site notes that Austria is a small nation, yet it ranks among the developed European countries renowned for their architecture. It is characterized by a high cost of living, driven by high prices for real estate and food.
Austria offers ten different types of residence permits for immigrants. To obtain one, prospective immigrants must apply to the Austrian embassy and provide documentation regarding their income, property ownership, and other relevant details.
The site mentions that Belgium is a small European country known for its stunning landscapes and magnificent architecture. It is also characterized by a high standard of living.
To obtain a residence permit there, immigrants must first secure employment and then submit the necessary documents to the Belgian embassy. Employment must commence within two weeks of arrival, and the residence permit remains valid for the duration of that employment.
The site also highlights Ecuador—a small, mountainous country on South America s Pacific coast that uses the US dollar as its primary currency—noting its low costs for real estate and food. Obtaining a retirement visa is considered the easiest way to immigrate to this country. Applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of at least -$-800 for the duration of their stay in Ecuador.
Meanwhile, the Republic of Nicaragua, located in Central America, is known for its beautiful landscapes and friendly local population. Nicaragua offers a retirement visa under the same conditions as Ecuador.
The site also notes that Belize is a small country bordered by Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west, where English is spoken. It is characterized by a low cost of living. To immigrate there, one can obtain a one-month tourist visa and subsequently renew it for up to 50 weeks. Afterward, the immigrant must pay a fee of approximately -$-1,000 and prepare the necessary documentation to obtain a full residence permit.
The site highlights that Costa Rica is a popular choice for immigrants seeking a peaceful life, thanks to its status as a safe country. Notably, Costa Rica has no national army, yet it provides high-quality services to visitors.
The country is characterized by a low cost of living. To secure immigration, applicants must provide proof of a monthly income exceeding -$-1,000 and obtain employment to qualify for a residence permit.
Finally, Paraguay is located in South America, bordered by Brazil and Argentina. The country is notable for its low cost of living and lack of overly burdensome requirements.
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