The Challenge of Immigration: A Radical Solution

The issue of migration has often divided political economists -- even those of a broadly free-market perspective. In this IEA Occasional Paper, Nobel Laureate Gary Becker briefly discusses the benefits and some of the problems arising from migration. He then makes a radical proposal that should satisfy many on both sides of the debate. Becker proposes that immigrants should be charged to enter countries such as the USA and the UK. This might be regarded by some as an inappropriate way to deal with the problems caused by unlimited migration. However, the author lucidly presents his case, showing how it will help both migrants and the country they are entering whilst defusing debates surrounding migration. Furthermore, he makes a powerful case that his proposal will help ease the serious problem of illegal migration. The publication also includes a commentary from Diane Coyle.