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Photo by Mitchel Lensink on Unsplash

Introduction:

In the quiet village of Dingucha, just 13 km away from the capital of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, a disturbing trend has emerged. The allure of a better life abroad, particularly in the United States and Canada, has driven many villagers to embark on the perilous journey known as the 'donkey process.' This process, marked by illegal border crossings and facilitated by shady agencies, has claimed lives, shattered dreams, and exposed the harsh realities of economic disparities and unemployment in India.

The Tragic Journey of the Patel Family:

In January 2022, the Patel family, led by 39-year-old Jagdish Patel, sought to escape poverty and unemployment by attempting the 'donkey process.' Formerly a teacher, Jagdish struggled to make ends meet, earning a modest monthly income of ₹9,000 - ₹10,000. With hopes of a better future for his family, the Patels raised ₹6.5 million to engage the services of an agent for their journey to Canada, with the ultimate goal of reaching the United States.

Tragically, within a week of their arrival in Toronto, the Patel family's lifeless bodies were discovered just 12 meters away from the US-Canada border. The freezing temperatures, reaching as low as -35°C, proved fatal. The story of the Patels is not isolated, as thousands of Indians attempt similar journeys each year, with many losing their lives in the process.

Understanding the 'Donkey Process':

The 'donkey process' refers to the illegal entry into a country without a legal visa, often involving crossing borders on foot. Initially associated with the UK, the process has evolved to focus on entering the United States. In India, states like Gujarat, Punjab, and, more recently, Haryana, have become hubs for illegal immigration.

Numerous visa agencies and companies exploit the desperation of individuals by offering different packages, charging exorbitant amounts ranging from ₹2.5 million to ₹6 million. These agencies mislead people with false promises of a smooth journey and abundant job opportunities abroad, preying on those unaware of the legal challenges ahead.

The Dangers of the 'Donkey Route':

The 'donkey route' to the United States takes various forms, with one of the most perilous routes originating from South America. Starting in Ecuador or Brazil, individuals traverse thousands of kilometers, facing dangers such as the notorious Darien Gap – a dense jungle with no roads, where drug cartels and guerrilla groups pose significant threats. The journey often culminates at the imposing US-Mexico border wall.

The dangers of this route are underscored by the alarming statistic that over 650 people died attempting to cross the US-Mexico border in one year. Despite the treacherous nature of the journey, individuals continue to invest millions of rupees and risk their lives in pursuit of economic opportunities, driven by rising unemployment and, in some cases, political persecution.

Motivations Behind the 'Donkey Process':

Three main reasons underpin the decision to undertake the 'donkey process.' The pursuit of economic opportunities tops the list, as individuals believe in the American Dream and hope for a better life. Societal pressures, fueled by success stories, contribute to the decision-making process, especially for those in the lower middle class.

Rising unemployment, particularly in states like Haryana, where the unemployment rate is a staggering 37.3%, drives individuals to seek alternatives through the 'donkey process.' The desperation to escape dire conditions leads people to sell family land and gold to fund the risky endeavor.

The third significant reason is political persecution, with some individuals fleeing their home country due to oppression or discrimination. Seeking asylum becomes a primary motivation, prompting individuals to surrender to Border Patrol upon crossing the border.

The Evolving 'Donkey Process':

The 'donkey process' has evolved over the years, shifting its focus from the UK to the United States. Initially associated with the UK, individuals would travel to the Schengen zone in Europe, where only the Schengen visa was required. From there, various routes were taken to enter the UK illegally.

In recent times, the process has expanded to encompass various backdoor entries into the United States. Visa agencies and companies in India facilitate this process, with agents transporting individuals, termed as 'donkers.' Two Indian states, Gujarat and Punjab, were initially renowned for being the primary exporters of illegal immigrants. However, due to rising unemployment, Haryana has also entered this competitive arena.

The services offered by these agencies vary based on the package chosen, ranging from deluxe travel packages, including forging fake documents and travel assistance, to more economical options. The charges can range from ₹2.5 million to ₹6 million, exploiting the desperation of individuals who may not realize that regular visa fees are never this high.

Global Impact and Statistics:

The issue of illegal immigration extends beyond India, with individuals from various countries attempting the 'Donkey process' to enter the US. The number of Indians attempting illegal entry into the US has seen a significant increase year-on-year. According to the US Customs and Border Protection, more than 30,000 Indians attempted illegal entry in 2020-21, doubling to 63,927 in 2021-22, and reaching a staggering 96,000 between October 2022 and September 2023.

These numbers highlight the urgency of addressing the root causes of illegal immigration and finding comprehensive solutions to the global issue. Among Asian countries, India tops the list in terms of individuals attempting the 'Donkey process.'

Rising Unemployment and Economic Desperation:

The increasing rate of unemployment, particularly in states like Haryana, plays a significant role in driving individuals towards the 'donkey process.' According to a September 2022 report by the Center for Monitoring Indian Economy, Haryana holds the top spot in the country for unemployment, with a staggering 37.3% unemployment rate, four times the national average.

In rural areas outside cities, the conditions are dire, pushing thousands of unemployed individuals to sell family land and gold to fund their risky endeavors. Villages like Dhatrath, Morkhi, and Kalwa in the Jind district of Haryana have become hubs for individuals seeking the 'donkey process.' Desperation, coupled with societal and family pressures, contributes to the increasing numbers attempting illegal entry.

The Southern Route: Danger in the Americas:

While the 'donkey process' originating from South America offers an alternative route for Indians, the journey through countries like Ecuador, Colombia, Panama, and Mexico is fraught with peril. The Darien Gap, a dense jungle over 100 kilometers wide, presents a significant challenge with no roads, only mountains, forests, bushes, and rivers.

This region is considered one of the most dangerous globally, with drug cartels and guerrilla groups using the route regularly. Tragically, individuals attempting this route often fall victim to gang violence, leading to loss of lives. Surviving the jungle, migrants face Mexico's scorching desert and the imposing wall constructed, most likely during Donald Trump's presidency, at the US-Mexico border.

Asylum-Seeking and the Immigration Court Process:

The primary reason individuals surrender themselves to Border Patrol upon crossing the US border is to seek asylum. Asylum is a form of international protection for those who have a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. However, the asylum process in the United States is complex and challenging.

Upon surrender, individuals are processed by Border Patrol and then transferred to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody. From there, they go through initial interviews to determine whether they have a credible fear of persecution. If found eligible, they may be released on parole to await their immigration court hearings. However, the backlog in immigration courts often means long waiting periods, during which individuals may live in legal limbo.

The process of obtaining asylum involves presenting a compelling case to an immigration judge, often requiring legal representation. Many individuals attempting the 'donkey process' are unaware of these complexities, and some end up in detention centers or face deportation due to insufficient legal support.

The Role of Visa Agencies and Human Smugglers:

The 'donkey process' thrives due to the involvement of visa agencies and human smugglers who exploit the desperation of individuals seeking a better life. These entities often operate with little oversight and are known for providing false promises to potential migrants. The lure of a better life, coupled with misinformation, prompts individuals to pay exorbitant fees for assistance in illegal entry.

The fees charged by these agencies can range from ₹2.5 million to ₹6 million, depending on the package chosen. This includes various services such as fake documentation, transportation, and guidance on the journey. In some cases, individuals end up being abandoned midway, left to navigate unfamiliar territories on their own.

The Impact on Families and Communities:

The decision to pursue the 'donkey process' has profound implications not only for individuals but also for their families and communities. Families often invest their life savings, sell valuable assets, and go into debt to fund the journey, hoping for a better future abroad.

In the event of failure or tragedy, the consequences for families left behind are devastating. The loss of a family member, coupled with financial ruin, creates a ripple effect in the community. The social and economic fabric of these villages is profoundly impacted, leading to increased poverty and social challenges.

The Psychology of Migration:

The decision to embark on the 'donkey process' is shaped by a complex interplay of economic, social, and psychological factors. The belief in the American Dream, fueled by success stories of those who have made it, serves as a powerful motivator. The desire for upward social mobility and the prospect of escaping poverty drive individuals to take significant risks.

Societal pressures also play a role, as success stories are often romanticized, creating a sense of obligation to fulfill familial and societal expectations. In a society where migration is seen as a pathway to success, individuals may feel compelled to pursue the 'donkey process' despite the associated risks.

Psychologically, the decision to migrate is often driven by a combination of hope and desperation. The hope for a better life and improved economic prospects outweighs the fear of the dangers involved. Additionally, the perception that the risks are worth taking is reinforced by the lack of viable alternatives in the face of unemployment and economic hardship.

Global Economic Disparities and Migration:

The phenomenon of the 'donkey process' is not isolated to India; it is emblematic of larger global economic disparities that drive migration. The stark contrast in economic opportunities between developed and developing countries serves as a powerful incentive for individuals to seek a better life abroad.

Global economic disparities contribute to the creation of migration corridors, with individuals from economically disadvantaged regions seeking entry into countries with greater economic opportunities. The desire for a better life, coupled with the perception of developed countries as havens of prosperity, fuels the relentless pursuit of migration despite the inherent risks.

The Role of Technology in Facilitating Illegal Immigration:

Advancements in technology have played a significant role in facilitating illegal immigration. Social media platforms and messaging apps serve as conduits for communication between migrants and human smugglers or visa agents. These platforms enable the dissemination of information, including false promises and misleading advertisements, to potential migrants.

Additionally, technology is leveraged in the production of fake documents, making it easier for individuals to attempt illegal entry. The use of counterfeit passports, visas, and other identification documents has become a common practice in the 'donkey process,' further highlighting the need for enhanced border security measures and international cooperation to curb these activities.

Legal and Ethical Implications:

The 'donkey process' raises critical legal and ethical questions concerning the rights and well-being of migrants. The use of illegal and often dangerous routes poses significant challenges for border enforcement agencies and contributes to a range of human rights violations. From the exploitation of vulnerable individuals by human smugglers to the risks of injury and death during the journey, the ethical implications of the 'donkey process' are profound.

Moreover, the asylum-seeking process in the destination country involves complex legal procedures. The lack of awareness and understanding of these procedures among migrants, coupled with limited access to legal representation, often results in individuals facing deportation or prolonged periods of detention.

Humanitarian Perspectives and Solutions:

Addressing the issue of the 'donkey process' requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses both short-term interventions and long-term solutions. From a humanitarian perspective, prioritizing the safety and well-being of migrants is paramount. This includes efforts to:

  1. Raise Awareness: Initiatives aimed at educating potential migrants about the risks, legal complexities, and potential consequences of the 'donkey process' are crucial. Public awareness campaigns can dispel myths and provide accurate information to individuals considering migration.
  2. Combat Human Trafficking: Given the involvement of human smugglers and visa agencies, international cooperation to combat human trafficking is essential. Strengthening legal frameworks and law enforcement efforts to dismantle smuggling networks can disrupt the 'donkey process.'
  3. Enhance Border Security: Improving border security measures, including the use of technology, surveillance, and intelligence-sharing, is vital in preventing illegal border crossings. International collaboration in this regard is essential to address the transnational nature of illegal immigration.
  4. Create Economic Opportunities: Long-term solutions must address the root causes of migration, including economic disparities and unemployment. Investing in job creation, skills development, and economic opportunities in source countries can provide viable alternatives to the 'donkey process.'
  5. Streamline Asylum Processes: Ensuring fair and efficient asylum processes in destination countries is crucial. This includes reducing backlogs in immigration courts, providing legal representation to asylum seekers, and addressing systemic challenges in the asylum system.
  6. International Cooperation: The issue of illegal immigration is inherently transnational, requiring coordinated efforts among source, transit, and destination countries. International collaboration can lead to the development of comprehensive policies that address the complexities of migration.
  7. Protecting Vulnerable Populations: Special attention should be given to protecting vulnerable populations, including women and children, who may be more susceptible to exploitation and abuse during the 'donkey process.' Safeguarding their rights and well-being is a fundamental aspect of any comprehensive solution.

Conclusion: Life is Invaluable:

Despite the potential reasons behind the 'donkey process,' it is essential to acknowledge the inherent dangers and complexities associated with this desperate journey. As individuals risk their lives and invest significant sums, the ultimate question arises – is the pursuit of a better life worth such perilous paths? Life is invaluable, and understanding the stark realities of the 'donkey process' is crucial in addressing the root causes and finding more humane solutions to the global issue of illegal immigration.

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