The United States plans to deport 36,000 Chinese illegal immigrants, but unexpectedly faces a cold response from the Chinese government: refusal to accept them. What lies behind this? Is it a firm defense of national sovereignty, or an unyielding warning against illegal acts? Or is it another game in the undercurrents of Sino-US relations? This decision not only affects the lives of tens of thousands, but also stirs up waves on the international stage. Let us peel away the surface and explore the deep logic behind China's refusal.
In recent years, a large number of Chinese citizens have chosen to illegally enter the United States, seeking what they consider a better life. According to statistics, over 37,000 Chinese citizens illegally entered the U.S. through the southern border in 2023, ten times more than the 3,813 in 2022. Most of these people come from the middle class, taking the risk due to the slowdown in the domestic economy or life pressures. They often take the smuggling route through South America, crossing the dangerous Darien Gap, paying high fees to smuggling networks, and finally arriving in the United States. However, their illegal status makes it difficult for them to work legally, and their lives are in hardship.
The motivations of these smugglers are complex and diverse. Some were bankrupted by the pandemic, some longed for Western freedom, but the reality was endless struggle. They work in low-paying jobs in the United States, and basic needs such as housing and education are blocked due to identity issues. This phenomenon not only reflects personal choices, but also reflects a corner of the global migration wave.
The Chinese government's refusal to accept 36,000 illegal immigrants demonstrates multiple considerations. First, it sends a clear message to the domestic public: illegal smuggling will not be protected. The government hopes that with a tough attitude, it can curb more people from taking risks, emphasizing the consequences of illegal acts. Second, this decision maintains the country's image. Accepting a large number of repatriated individuals may be seen as poor management or a compromise with illegal behavior, while China, as a rising power, focuses on showcasing authority and confidence on the international stage.
Additionally, the refusal to accept is related to national identity. The government believes that the smugglers blindly worship the West and ignore domestic achievements, such as urbanization and technological progress. Through this move, the country aims to strengthen citizens' sense of pride and remind them to cherish the current development. From a practical perspective, receiving tens of thousands involves a huge logistics cost, so refusing may be a more economical choice.
Although international law requires the reception of its own citizens, technical issues such as identity verification provide China with operational space. If it involves non-continental residents or identity disputes, there is a basis for refusing to receive them. This move may also become a bargaining chip in Sino-US diplomatic negotiations.
This decision has triggered widespread reactions. In China, the public expressed support on social media, believing that the smugglers should not be forgiven, reflecting the rising tide of nationalism. In the United States, immigration authorities face a dilemma, with detention centers overwhelmed, and both releasing or continuing to detain are costly, forcing policy adjustments. The repatriated individuals are in a desperate situation, unable to integrate into the United States and having nowhere to go.
On the diplomatic level, the tension between China and the United States has intensified. Both sides have engaged in a confrontation over sovereignty and obligations, and the deadlock is unlikely to be resolved in the short term. The impact of this incident may extend to trade and security areas, becoming a new variable in bilateral relations.
China's refusal to accept 36,000 illegal immigrants is both a warning against illegal acts and a defense of national dignity. This decision is thought-provoking in the context of globalization. Do you think China should accept these immigrants, or should it stick to its position? Welcome to leave a comment and share your opinion.
Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1836898161587268/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author.