The new Secretary of Homeland Security
Assume you are the new Secretary of Homeland Security. You are drafting a Policy Document referred to as a “White Paper” for the Biden Administration to highlight the impact of open/closed borders in the age of COVID-19 on migration, asylum seekers, and economic recovery. In this white paper, consider the following to frame your paper.
Define what YOU believe an “OPEN” vs “CLOSED” border means especially when dealing with those seeking asylum. Reminder, that you can provide your opinion without using “I think” or something similar.
How do you believe illegal migrants can be treated humanely and with dignity/inclusion?
How does an “open” vs a “closed” border impact the United States economy?
What are your recommendations for the next 12-24 months on specific steps that the new administration needs to take?
Sample Answer
An open border is a border that is freely passable by people and goods. A closed border is a border that is heavily guarded and difficult to cross without permission.
In the context of asylum seekers, an open border would allow anyone seeking asylum to enter the country and apply for asylum without fear of being deported. A closed border would make it very difficult for asylum seekers to enter the country, and those who did manage to enter might be deported.