International Migration and Homeland Security: Cooperation and Collaboration in North America.

Prior to September 11, scholarly discussions concerning multilateral regimes to govern the movement of people among states in North America centered on the desire to facilitate flows. Common macro-economic interests for more open migration among NAFTA countries press for a more Ricardian approach to migration management similar to that utilized for trade and capital flows. Although dialogue regarding migration regimes has been most rigorous in the European Union, strong interests exist among North American countries to craft policy in the EU mold. However, the events of September 11 not only served to table existing plans for multilateral negotiations regarding migration, but also appeared to completely alter the strategic environment. After 9/11, recognition among policy makers in the U.S. and Canada of the close link between migration control and counter-terrorism prompted widespread acceptance of the view that increasing security is a precondition for openness to migration. Yet, as an inherently global phenomenon it would appear that security could be increased not only through new domestic policies, but also through increased multilateral cooperation. Is such cooperation likely in the area of migration and border control in North America, and are NAFTA countries moving toward a more European approach toward migration and border management? Early evidence shows us that although some cooperation has already been initiated, disparity of interests among North American states presents a significant political obstacle to regime formation, as do the logistical challenges facing Canada, the United States, and Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]