Immigration Article of the Day: The Asymmetric Effects of Migration Policy Change by Anna Closas, Adam B. Cox, David Hausman & Mary Hoopes

The Asymmetric Effects of Migration Policy Change  by Anna Closas, Adam B. Cox, David Hausman & Mary Hoopes

Abstract

Migrants change their behavior more in response to welcoming border policy changes than to new restrictions. We draw on interviews with ninety-five migrants and staff in shelters to help explain why. Push factors lead migrants to discount negative information but not positive information, which can influence how they enter. Negative information is less credible and available than positive information. Unpredictable government decisionmaking at the border makes negative news seem uncertain. And finally, as migrants learn more about border restrictions during their long journey, turning back becomes progressively more costly.