Since 2012, an increasing number of Chinese refugees have been scattering across various nations, with America as the primary destination. According to a report from The Conversation, over the past decade, more than 850,000 Chinese have applied for asylum in numerous countries. Even if denied refugee status, they risk perilous illegal entry routes. But what's driving the exodus from an economically strong nation?
First, let's understand the situation in Germany
Significant raids across eight states commenced Wednesday. This operation, involving federal police and intelligence personnel, targeted over a hundred business premises. Many Chinese citizens, who had spent thousands of euros on German residency permits, were found. An extensive human trafficking network was exposed, ferrying desperate individuals from various nations into Germany. The crackdown is ongoing, but the spotlight has intensified on China's situation.
A decades-long ban by America
From 1882 to 1943, the US government prohibited the immigration of Chinese laborers. This was driven by fears of resource monopolization by Chinese, not economic competition. Chinese immigrants cleverly circumvented these restrictions, adopting Mexican identities, learning basic Spanish, and using Mexico as a gateway into the US, when cross-border movement was simpler.
In 1943, restrictions eased, accelerating immigration. Current levels are record high.
Source: aajtak
Politics dictate life
In China, political rigidity is prominent. What's permissible ideologically is dictated by the ruling party, with little room for LGBTQ rights or women's rights discussions. The Communist Party's narrative reigns supreme.
Tightened control on religious freedom
In 2018, President Xi Jinping openly called for the sinicization of all religions in China. This move severely impacted religious freedoms; places of worship must register, worshippers reserve online, and disclose personal and intended worship location details.
Source: aajtak
Recently, the term 'runxue' or 'run philosophy' has emerged, suggesting fleeing China is the safest option. Another term, 'jokshian' or 'walking the route,' has gained traction among those journeying perilously via Latin America to the US. The United Nations Refugee Data Finder chronologically details the asylum application numbers of Chinese nationals per country.
This migratory trend contradicts the 'Chinese Dream' portrayed domestically, promoting a love for the nation among youth. Yet, more are looking outward towards the 'American Dream.'
China ranks third in US immigrant population
China leads the migration charts to the US. A Migration Policy report reveals that following Mexico and India, Chinese make up the third-largest immigrant group in the US. More than 5% of all migrants in 2021 were Chinese, part of the 45 million-plus authorized immigrants residing in the US.
