A Bridge, Not a Burden: The True Impact of Migration

By FAWAZ ALMOTLAK

Migration to Western countries is no longer merely the movement of individuals seeking a better life; it has become a complex issue intertwined with political, social, economic, and cultural dimensions. Migration from Arab countries to the West occupies a particular place within this debate, as it has often been driven by harsh circumstances of conflict, war, and economic crises that forced many to leave their homelands in search of dignity and stability.

Yet the perception of migration in Western societies is not always positive; it is often clouded by anxiety and suspicion. Many voices in the West view migrants as an economic burden, assuming they take more from social and health services than they contribute. Others see migration as a security or cultural threat, especially when it involves people arriving from Arab or Muslim countries, whose presence is unjustly associated with extremism or difficulties in integration. These fears, amplified by sections of the media and political rhetoric driven by electoral motives, have made the image of migrants a divisive issue in Western public opinion.

The reality on the ground, however, tells a different story—one that is more positive and deeply human. Migrants have never been merely a burden; throughout history, they have been a vital force in building the societies that received them. They have filled essential roles in health care, education, construction, and services—sectors already struggling with severe labor shortages. Migrants do not only receive support; they work, pay taxes, and participate actively in the economic cycle.

As one of those migrants, I can personally testify to the positive side of migration. Nine years ago, I left my home country where I had worked as a journalist, and I moved to the United Kingdom in search of new horizons. The journey was not easy, for migration is not simply a change of place but also a confrontation with cultural differences and the responsibility of balancing one’s original identity with the need to engage positively in a new society. Over time, I found myself working in a charity organization, contributing to the support of refugees and the local community through programs of integration, mental health support, and social wellbeing.

This work has allowed me to carry out my duties as a resident in this country with seriousness and respect for its laws and values, while also exercising my rights as a global citizen striving to contribute to the common good. I have come to realize that migration is not only about benefiting from opportunities, but also about accepting a moral responsibility towards the host society. A true migrant is one who leaves a positive mark wherever he goes. Through my professional and humanitarian role, I have witnessed firsthand how migrants can become a source of strength, building bridges between cultures and enriching the host community with their experiences and perspectives.

My personal experience has convinced me that migration, despite the misunderstandings and fears surrounding it, is a real opportunity for societies to renew themselves and diversify their human capital. A migrant is not necessarily a burden or an outsider, but a human being searching for dignity and a better life, who—when given the chance—can prove as capable of giving as he is of receiving.

For this reason, the discussion around migration should not be limited to numbers, security concerns, or cultural anxieties; it must also recognize the human stories and lived experiences. Every migrant’s story is a testament to resilience and the ability to adapt, no matter the circumstances. And while Western societies sometimes view migration as a threat, the truth is that migrants often represent a valuable asset—among them Arabs who have excelled in journalism, medicine, engineering, and the arts, offering richer and more diverse contributions to their new societies.

Migration is not a temporary phenomenon but a constant force in human history. Although it brings challenges, its positive aspects remain stronger and more enduring. Today, more than ever, we need to approach migration with fairness, seeing it as a bridge that connects rather than a wall that divides, and as an opportunity for cooperation rather than a burden to be rejected. Only then can migration become a shared story of success, rather than a lost battle over identity.

What is stated in this article solely represents the opinion of the author and not the organisation where he works.