Disorderly Borders

The book explores the complexities of immigration crises in the U.S., advocating for reforms by examining the interplay of various global laws, particularly through the lens of undocumented migrant farm workers.

In Disorderly Borders, the author delves into the complex immigration crises currently faced by the United States, highlighting the intricate interplay between various areas of global law and policy. At first glance, these areas may appear disparate, encompassing economic law, human rights and refugee law, and criminal law related to the trafficking and smuggling of migrants. The book dedicates itself to unpacking these dynamics, ultimately advocating for the expansion of reform efforts to address these pressing issues.

Focusing on a central case study of undocumented migrant farm workers in upstate New York, Disorderly Borders examines the conditions surrounding their entry into the U.S., their rights while residing and working here, and the consequences they face upon apprehension and potential expulsion. The author argues that the presence of these migrants is intricately linked to the influences of international economic law, revealing how the interaction of various legal frameworks often leads to incoherent definitions of legal rights and remedies.

The narrative presents the wave of irregular migration as a manifestation of a perfect storm in international law, illustrating the unstable relationships between diverse legal regimes. This instability propels dynamic population movements, often without the necessary just and orderly means of protection. Through thoughtful analysis, Disorderly Borders calls for a reevaluation of existing laws and policies to create a more coherent and humane approach to immigration.