Xeno-Racism and International Migration

Abstract

from the issues of other migrants. In a liberal democratic context the problems of refugees and asylum seekers need to be addressed through internationally accepted and agreed mechanisms. Yet, these issues are generally subsumed under immigration laws. Historically, domestic immigration laws that govern the selection, importation, regulation, exploitation, and control of labour have been racist. This exemplifies the contradiction/dilemma that has been central to the nation-building process of white settler colonies. On the one hand states espouse the values of liberal democracy. However, on the other, the core of these states is colonial and racist because of their historical formation that was deeply rooted in racism and colonialism.