Maldives Faces Greater Threat From Illegal Immigration Than Geopolitics

The article argues that illegal immigration poses a greater threat to Maldives' security than geopolitical competition. It cites UN data that the Maldives has the largest proportional migrant population in South Asia, with 200,000-250,000 migrants (about a third of the population). IOM reported 63,000 undocumented migrants in 2019. The government has regularized over 40,000 previously undocumented migrants. Human trafficking is a major cause of undocumented migration. The Maldives was on the Tier 2 Watchlist for trafficking from 2018-2020. It endorsed the Global Compact for Migration and is strengthening border security with advanced surveillance at airports and seaports.

The article argues that illegal immigration poses a greater threat to Maldives' security than geopolitical competition. It cites UN data that the Maldives has the largest proportional migrant population in South Asia, with 200,000-250,000 migrants (about a third of the population). IOM reported 63,000 undocumented migrants in 2019. The government has regularized over 40,000 previously undocumented migrants. Human trafficking is a major cause of undocumented migration. The Maldives was on the Tier 2 Watchlist for trafficking from 2018-2020. It endorsed the Global Compact for Migration and is strengthening border security with advanced surveillance at airports and seaports.

The article argues that illegal immigration poses a greater threat to Maldives' security than geopolitical competition. It cites UN data that the Maldives has the largest proportional migrant population in South Asia, with 200,000-250,000 migrants (about a third of the population). IOM reported 63,000 undocumented migrants in 2019. The government has regularized over 40,000 previously undocumented migrants. Human trafficking is a major cause of undocumented migration. The Maldives was on the Tier 2 Watchlist for trafficking from 2018-2020. It endorsed the Global Compact for Migration and is strengthening border security with advanced surveillance at airports and seaports.

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