United States

Behind the Naturalization Backlog: Causes, Context and Concerns

A surge of naturalization applications in 2007, combined with outdated systems and security checks, produced a sharp backlog threatening timely access to U.S. citizenship.

Weaknesses in the Visa Waiver Program

Material Support to Terrorism — Consequences for Refugees and Asylum Seekers in the United States

Broad post-September 11 material-support laws in the United States have stalled or barred many refugees who aided antiauthoritarian groups.

Spotlight on Naturalization Trends in Advance of the 2008 Elections

In 2006, naturalized U.S. citizens accounted for 7.3 percent of eligible voters.

Arizona Employer Sanctions Law Takes Effect

Arizona's employer sanctions law took effect January 1, 2008, requiring mandatory E-Verify use.

USCIS Faces Criticism over Visa Backlog

Growing application volumes, added security checks, and resource constraints have led to prolonged U.S. visa processing delays.

Spotlight on Refugees and Asylees in the United States

The United States admitted more than 41,000 refugees and granted asylum to 26,000 individuals in 2006.

Ones to Watch in 2008: The 2008 US Presidential Elections, New Settlement Patterns, Visa Waiver Program, Migration and Climate Change, and France

A look at top migration developments globally that could shape 2008, from U.S. electoral politics to shifting settlement patterns.

Political Paralysis: The Failure of U.S. Immigration Reform

A U.S. bipartisan "grand compromise" on immigration fell apart in 2007 over amnesty fears, leaving 12 million unauthorized immigrants in limbo.

Integration Means Belonging

While Switzerland's anti-immigration party won its best result ever in 2007, Germany, Canada, and South Korea expanded integration programs, revealing global divisions.