Tyler Cowen argues that America should increase its immigration from Africa, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, as demographic shifts could lead to a decline in newcomers from more familiar regions. Recently, President Biden’s remarks regarding Somali immigrants in Minnesota have fueled discussions on the impact of immigration in the U.S.
Cowen has supported immigration since the 1970s but believes that the current conversation needs to focus on the potential of African immigration. He notes that the U.S. may soon see fewer immigrants from regions like Latin America, where fertility rates have dropped significantly. In fact, as of recent data, Mexico has a very low fertility rate of 1.2 children per woman, resulting in what Cowen suggests could be a plateau in Latino migration to the U.S.
Conversely, many African countries maintain higher fertility rates, although these rates are generally declining. For instance, in Nigeria, the total fertility rate stands at approximately 4.4 children per woman. This demographic trend could lead to an increase in migration as individuals from these nations seek opportunities in more prosperous and democratic countries like the United States.
Cowen raises a critical question for future policymaking in wealthier nations: should they allow their populations to shrink, or should they embrace significant immigration from Africa? This consideration comes at a time when broader immigration policies are being debated in the U.S., highlighting the complex nature of immigration dynamics amid changing demographics globally.
Looking ahead, the conversation surrounding African immigration is likely to evolve, further influenced by economic conditions and the political landscape in both the U.S. and African nations.
