National Interest

National Interest

A country's priority goals (safety, economy, values) guiding decisions. 

policy

Official government plan/rule addressing an issue. 

 

Humanitarian: 

 

Helping people in need, based on compassion. 

Sovereignty:

 A nation's right to self-govern, including over borders and refugees. 

Six Types of National Interest 

economic, security, cultural, humanitarian, political, international

economic

 Nations accept refugees to fill job shortages, boost labor, especially in aging populations. 

security

Governments control borders, screen refugees to prevent threats, and maintain public safety

culural

Nations may favor refugees who share language/traditions, aiding integration. 

humanitarian

Countries act out of moral duty to protect people fleeing war or persecution, offering shelter and rights. 

political

Leaders may change refugee policies to gain public support or respond to election pressures. 

international

Nations follow global agreements or build diplomatic ties by helping refugees, even when it's costly. 

How Interests Shape Policy 

identify need, match interest, set rules

identify need

A country assesses its challenges-like worker shortages or security risks-that could guide refugee policy. 

match interest

If labor is needed, 

economic interest drives policies allowing skilled refugee workers to enter. 

 

set rules

The government creates visa rules, language tests, or quotas based on the chosen national interest.