A foreign and domestic policy gap: The resettlement of our allies.

摘要

When U.S. foreign policy involves overt intervention abroad, the employment of local nationals is common and necessary. Foreign nationals who work for the U.S., in some instances, are threatened due to that relationship. In specific cases, policymakers have authorized and funded the immigration of foreign nationals who had worked for and with the U.S. and were targeted due to that relationship. However, the U.S. has no consistent policy on the domestic resettlement of foreign nationals as a consequence of their support of US military interventions.;This multi-case study analyzed the domestic resettlement of Vietnamese, Iraqi Kurds, Iraq and Afghans Special Immigrant Visa-holders. I evaluated policies, appropriations, and legislation. I also interviewed SIV holders, federal and state agencies, as well as resettlement organizations. The purpose of the research was to understand the resettlement policy, past and current practices, organizational structure and relationships, and develop best practices for future resettlement of foreign nationals.;The study revealed that the policy of "self-sustainability," as embedded in the Immigration and Naturalization Act of 1965, is largely unachievable in today's economic and social environment. Further, labor market conditions, as well as the lack of mobility of benefits and access to adequate transportation, further limit immigrants' ability to achieve self-sustainability. Immigration policy and practices are largely out of date and do not support integration in the 21st century American economy. Simply resettling immigrants who sacrificed blood and treasure for the United States with outdated policies is unconscionable. I recommend reforming the existing system to allow the transfer of medical and social benefits across state lines. Further, investing in a holistic evaluation of the immigrant's family situation, job skills, and ambitions prior to arrival will result in an efficient and effective resettlement.