When it comes to protecting national borders, the contrast between the United States and European nations is stark. In the US, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has deported over 250,000 individuals in less than a year under the Trump administration. While mistakes inevitably occur in such large-scale operations, this approach has removed dangerous criminals including murderers, rapists, and drug dealers effectively preventing them from continuing their crimes on US soil.
Europe, however, has struggled to manage the migration crisis. The UK government’s much-touted “one in, one out” migration policy has proved largely symbolic. Since its introduction, just 153 people have been returned to France while 141 were admitted. What was supposed to be a “game-changer” has become a political charade, highlighting a lack of effectiveness in addressing migration challenges.
The wider European context shows why stricter policies are increasingly appealing to voters. Many migrants risk their lives attempting to reach Europe, often funding dangerous journeys in hopes of a better life. Countries like France, Poland, Germany, and Italy are responding with tougher measures. For instance, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has cut migrant arrivals by 60% through agreements with countries of origin such as Algeria and Tunisia. In France, National Rally leader Jordan Bardella has positioned himself as a strong advocate for stricter migration controls, aiming to challenge EU-wide policies that he sees as too lenient.
Yet, the European Union continues to impose mandates on member states, including fines for those refusing to take in their share of migrants. Many countries, including Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, and Poland, are seeking exemptions, while Hungary has openly refused to comply. This tension raises questions about the EU’s cohesion and effectiveness.
Against this backdrop, it’s easier to understand why former US President Donald Trump criticized Europe as “weak and decaying,” warning that some nations could become unrecognizable if migration and border security issues are not addressed. The contrast with the US underscores a key point: decisive border enforcement, despite its challenges, can be far more effective than symbolic measures that fail to address the reality on the ground.
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