The answer is zero. “Illegal” immigrants do not exist. “Illegal immigration” does not exist.

Dehumanisation

We don’t use the word “illegal” to describe undocumented migrants. This word is dehumanising and contributes to the demonisation of migrant communities.

The word is dehumanising and reductive, and an insult to the struggle and arduous experiences that migrants, including refugees and people seeking asylum, may have been through. Legal status is also arbitrary and often does not coincide with morality. The word also contributes to increased hostility towards migrant communities, and insinuates that they are undeserving of rights. Instead of using language that scapegoats migrants who are forced into unsafe routes or precarious situations, the focus should be directed towards the Government’s failures to consistently provide routes to safety.

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Solidarity

How can we show solidarity towards migrants? It is so important to uplift the migrant experience: and this starts with the language that we use.

We should use language that emphasises the structural violence of borders and immigration systems, and centres the our collective aspirations for respect and dignity, and shared values.

The language of “undocumented”, “irregular” or “without permission” sheds light on the struggle that migrants face as they navigate the violence of border regimes. This language thus allows for a focus on the structures that force migrants into unsafe routes. However, we are currently reflecting on these terms particularly as the Home Office have started to adopt them whilst enforcing increasingly cruel immigration policies.

‘Political condemnation

The term ‘illegal’ to define people moving across borders has been condemned by both the United Nations and the European Union. The negative connotations of the term has been highlighted while emphasising the need to utilise the term “irregular” or “undocumented” migrants. 

The terms ‘undocumented’ or ‘irregular’ emphasises the difficulties, nuances and complexities that cause people to lose status or become displaced, including exploitation or having their documents lost or destroyed by others. Everyone has the right to leave a country and claim protection. 

“Let me be clear about my vocabulary too: illegal migrants do not exist. People may come to the EU and might be required to use irregular ways… but no human being is illegal.”- Cecilia Malmström, European Commissioner for Home Affairs, 29 November 2010

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Migration is a natural part of the human experience. We need to shift the narrative away from “illegal immigration” and express solidarity to those who are targeted by borders. In doing so, we can also shift the blame onto the structures that harm the most marginalised communities. No human being is illegal.

References

For more information on irregular or undocumented migration, check out the fantastic work of Regularise.