Immigration remains a complex challenge at home and abroad. Millions of people are displaced each year due to conflict, economic instability, and natural disasters. As we’ve seen from Syria to Venezuela, governments around the world are under pressure to manage large migration flows while also maintaining public safety, national security, and the rule of law.
This is where smart, strategic U.S. foreign engagement makes a difference.
Instead of reacting to crises after they hit our borders, the United States should continue investing in programs that address instability and irregular migration before they become full-blown national security threats. That includes building partnerships with local governments, strengthening border management systems, and offering practical, voluntary solutions for migrants and host countries alike.
Programs that support voluntary return and reintegration, for example, are far more cost-effective than traditional deportation. Rather than spending $17,000 per person on removal, U.S.-backed voluntary return programs average closer to $4,500 per case, according to the Department of Homeland Security. These initiatives allow migrants to return home with dignity – and help countries stabilize communities by providing modest reintegration support.
They also align with the Trump administration’s priority of reducing illegal immigration and protecting American borders. When managed responsibly, these programs serve as both a deterrent and a pressure release valve, offering lawful alternatives to dangerous, irregular migration.
In recent years, certain international partners, including agencies like the International Organization for Migration (IOM), have worked with U.S. officials to implement these programs efficiently. While all multilateral programs should be held accountable and regularly reviewed, some have shown a clear commitment to reform and results. Organizations that help return migrants home, disrupt trafficking networks, and strengthen partner governments’ capacity deserve continued support, so long as they are aligned with American interests.
These efforts also contribute to broader foreign policy goals. In Latin America, U.S.-supported initiatives have helped countries like Panama and Paraguay modernize their border systems and identify high-risk smuggling routes. In Africa, agricultural training programs are reducing food insecurity and creating economic opportunities. This prevents future waves of displacement. In Ukraine, U.S. foreign engagement has saved civilian lives in the face of the ongoing war.
These are not abstract efforts. They directly advance U.S. national security, economic interests, and geopolitical competitiveness, especially against China. Whether it is helping governments adopt modern border controls, equipping law enforcement to combat criminal gangs, or offering lifesaving support to victims of trafficking, the common thread is impact.
Effective foreign engagement is not about charity, it’s about strategy. The United States cannot afford to disengage from efforts that make our nation more secure. The Trump administration rightly prioritized programs that deliver measurable outcomes and protect the homeland. That approach should continue with rigorous oversight, smart investments, and a focus on making every dollar count.
The world is not getting safer. But with the right tools and partnerships, America can lead from a position of strength and advance its interests without sacrificing its values.
Daniel F. Runde is the author of the book “The American Imperative: Reclaiming Global Leadership Through Soft Power” (Bombardier Books, 2023).
