Surprising as it sounds, the illegal immigrant population has actually reduced. Even more surprising is the amount by which it has reduced – by almost one million. In 2009, the 11.6 million illegal immigrant figures had dropped to 10.8 million, continued the trend experienced in 2008. This has brought up two very interesting questions.

1. What is causing the downturn?
2. What can be done to the remaining numbers?

Steven Camarota at the Center for Immigration Studies, points out that this trend, of the last two years, is a clear indication that the problem of illegal immigration can be solved. However, his belief in the immigration authorities and their capabilities in discouraging illegal immigrants may not be well placed. The chief cause of the downturn is believed to be attributed to the state of the economy. The lack of jobs for millions of U.S. citizens has in turn affected those working in the country illegally. With no means to keep themselves afloat, many have returned to their native countries.

This has led to many fresh calls to reopen an old debate on drying up jobs for illegal immigrants. Those in favor of this move hold the new trend as proof that jobs are the main reason people cross over illegally and that taking away the incentive will more or less solve the whole illegal immigrant problem. The counter argument claims that there are many millions among illegal immigrants who contribute to society and live a positive life in the country. Legalizing them would be the proper thing to do, they argue, pointing out that this population is still here because they have no desire to go back no matter how hard times are.