Why are migrants blamed for economic issues like stagnant wages?

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Migrants Are Scapegoated for Economic Problems Due to Perceived Identity Threats and Misinformation

Migrants are often blamed for economic issues such as stagnant wages and precarious housing because they become a visible scapegoat for problems frequently rooted in domestic policy. This phenomenon is exacerbated by the tendency to view human migration as an identity threat, contrasting with the acceptance of non-human migrants like plants and animals. Despite studies indicating that long-term migration generally benefits economies, the fear of cultural dilution often outweighs economic data, leading to a societal tendency to attribute domestic economic woes to the presence of foreign workers.
The "Stranger" as a Convenient Scapegoat

In times of economic difficulty, particularly when facing stagnant wages and insecure housing situations, the "stranger" or migrant is frequently cast as the cause. This narrative suggests that migrants are taking jobs and depressing wages, or altering neighbourhoods in ways perceived as negative. These accusations often arise in contexts where domestic policies, rather than migration itself, are the primary drivers of these economic challenges. The visibility of migrant workers, in contrast to the abstract nature of economic policies, makes them an easier target for public frustration.
Economic Growth vs. Cultural Dilution Fears

While numerous studies consistently demonstrate that long-term migration contributes to economic growth by expanding the overall economic pie, this evidence is often overshadowed by anxieties regarding cultural dilution. The economic benefits, such as increased labour supply for industries like Malaysia's crucial rubber and palm oil sectors, are frequently overlooked. The reliance of these industries on workers from countries such as Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Nepal underscores the significant economic contributions of migrants, without whom these sectors would face substantial disruption and loss of foreign exchange.
The Contrast Between Plant and Human Migrants

A key factor in the scapegoating of human migrants lies in the differing perceptions of their impact. Migrant plants, such as the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) or the oil palm (Elaeis guineensis), are celebrated for their economic contributions and are seen as having successfully integrated into the Malaysian landscape, becoming symbols of national prosperity. In contrast, human migrants, who bring distinct cultural markers like accents, religious practices, and varied ethnicities, are perceived as a hyper-visible threat to national identity. This distinction highlights a societal acceptance of non-human economic migrants while exhibiting apprehension towards human ones.

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Why are migrants blamed for economic issues like stagnant wages?

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