Risks faced by the United States at its borders and points of entry
The United States faces several risks at its borders and points of entry. These are brought about by threats which can be from either the flow of people or cargo from other countries. Unauthorized travelers may enter the country being terrorists, international criminals, or illegal immigrants intending to stay in the country. Illegal goods that may be smuggled into the country at these points may be weapons, drugs, and counterfeit goods.
Several solutions may be applied at border points to reduce the above threats. One of the illegal solutions is family separation. This is where children of illegal immigrants are separated from their parents who are then prosecuted. The children are then taken by the Department of Health and Human Services. This solution does not work well since it does not contain measures to reunite such families. Legal solutions on the other hand include working with countries such as Mexico where illegal immigrants come from. For example, security cooperation with security agencies in Mexico to prevent illegal migrants from entering the country. This method has been effective since this action has turned back more migrants than has the United States.
In my opinion, building a wall between the United States and Mexico is not a good idea since it will be too expensive and ineffective. According to the Department of Homeland security, most illegal immigrants are those who overstay their visas. The wall may also be ineffective in stopping the flow of drugs and illegal weapons since such cartels can outsmart security at checkpoints. Most migrants are usually in search of work. Recently, most Mexicans have been moving close to the border to work in the booming economy. Building a wall would disrupt this economy, making the situation worse. Instead of building a fence, the United States should implement immigration reforms.