Title: Foreign Policy on Immigration Under Obama
Author: Innocent Creus Rugamba
Research Question:
How did the Obama administration's foreign policy shape U.S. immigration policy, and what were
the key impacts and challenges faced during this period?
Argument:
The Obama administration's foreign policy on immigration was characterized by a balance between
enforcement and integration, aiming to address both national security concerns and the
humanitarian needs of immigrants. This essay argues that while significant strides were made in
areas such as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and improving relations with
neighbouring countries, the administration faced substantial challenges, particularly from political
opposition and the limitations of executive actions.
Introduction:
The Obama administration's tenure from 2009 to 2017 marked a pivotal period in U.S. immigration
policy. Amidst complex global migration trends and domestic political pressures, President Obama
sought to implement a comprehensive approach that balanced enforcement with integration. This
essay explores the foreign policy dimensions of Obama's immigration strategy, examining key
initiatives such as DACA, diplomatic efforts with Latin American countries, and responses to the
global refugee crisis. The argument presented here is that despite notable achievements, the
administration's efforts were hampered by political resistance and the constraints of executive
authority. This essay will outline the structure of the argument, analyse the main body of evidence,
and conclude by summarizing the key findings in response to the research question.
Main Body:
1. Context and Background

Global Migration Trends: The early 21st century saw significant global migration, with
increasing numbers of refugees and economic migrants seeking better opportunities. The
U.S., as a major destination, faced growing pressures to manage its borders and integrate
new arrivals.

Domestic Political Climate: Obama's presidency coincided with heightened political
polarization, particularly on issues of immigration. The rise of anti-immigrant sentiment and
the influence of conservative political forces created a challenging environment for
comprehensive immigration reform.
2. Key Initiatives and Policies

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): One of the most significant
immigration policies under Obama, DACA was introduced in 2012 to provide temporary
relief from deportation and work authorization to eligible undocumented immigrants who
came to the U.S. as children. This policy aimed to integrate these individuals, known as
"Dreamers," into American society.

Diplomatic Efforts with Latin America: Obama's foreign policy included strengthening
relationships with Latin American countries to address the root causes of migration, such as
violence, economic instability, and lack of opportunities. Initiatives like the Alliance for
Prosperity in the Northern Triangle sought to improve conditions in countries like
Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.

Response to the Global Refugee Crisis: The Obama administration increased the U.S.
refugee admissions ceiling in response to the Syrian refugee crisis and other global
humanitarian emergencies. This policy aimed to demonstrate U.S. leadership in global
humanitarian efforts while addressing security concerns through rigorous vetting processes.
3. Challenges and Counter arguments

Political Opposition: Obama's immigration policies faced significant opposition from
Republican lawmakers and conservative interest groups. Efforts to pass comprehensive
immigration reform, such as the 2013 Senate bill, were thwarted by partisan gridlock.

Limitations of Executive Actions: While DACA provided relief to many undocumented
immigrants, it was a temporary measure subject to legal challenges and executive discretion.
The limitations of relying on executive actions became evident when DACA faced
rescindment attempts under subsequent administrations.

Border Security and Enforcement: Critics argued that Obama's policies did not
sufficiently address border security and the enforcement of immigration laws. The
administration's increased deportation rates in the early years were seen by some as
contradictory to its humanitarian rhetoric.
4. Theoretical Perspectives

Realism and National Security: From a realist perspective, the Obama administration's
focus on border security and enforcement aligns with national security priorities. The
increased deportations and border security measures can be seen as efforts to maintain state
sovereignty and control over national borders.

Liberalism and Humanitarianism: Liberal theories emphasize the importance of
international cooperation and humanitarian values. Obama's efforts to increase refugee
admissions and collaborate with Latin American countries reflect a commitment to these
principles.

Constructivism and Identity: Constructivist theories highlight the role of national identity
and social norms in shaping immigration policy. Obama's rhetoric on immigration often
emphasized the American identity as a nation of immigrants and the moral obligation to
support vulnerable populations.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Obama administration's foreign policy on immigration was a complex balancing
act between enforcement and integration. Key initiatives such as DACA and diplomatic efforts with
Latin American countries demonstrated a commitment to both national security and humanitarian
values. However, the administration faced significant challenges, including political opposition and
the limitations of executive actions. Despite these obstacles, Obama's policies laid the groundwork
for future immigration debates and highlighted the ongoing tensions between security,
humanitarianism, and political feasibility. The analysis presented here provides a nuanced
understanding of how foreign policy shaped U.S. immigration policy during Obama's tenure and
offers insights into the broader implications for future administrations.
Bibliography:

Meyers, Eytan. "Theories of International Immigration Policy: A Comparative Analysis."
International Migration Review, vol. 34, no. 4, 2000, pp. 1245-1282.

Freeman, Gary P. "International Immigration Policy: A Theoretical and Comparative
Analysis." The International Migration Review, vol. 38, no. 4, Winter 2004, pp. 1567-1568.

Smith, James P. "Immigration and the U.S. Economy." RAND Corporation, 2010.

Jones, Reece. "Border Walls: Security and the War on Terror in the United States, India, and
Israel." Zed Books, 2012.

Hollifield, James F. "Immigrants, Markets, and States: The Political Economy of Postwar
Europe." Harvard University Press, 1992.