It Is Easier to Destroy Than to Build: Immigration, Nationalism, and the Global Test of Humanity
By Adam Rizvi | Editor, The India Observer (TIO)
Across the world today, a troubling pattern is emerging. Nations that once proudly presented themselves as welcoming, diverse, and democratic are increasingly tightening immigration policies and witnessing rising political rhetoric around identity, religion, and nationalism.
Key facts
- Immigration enforcement is tightening in the US, Europe and elsewhere, creating uncertainty for legal residents and undocumented people alike.
- In India, the Modi/BJP era has drawn both praise for development and criticism over polarization and minority treatment.
- Manipur’s 2023 ethnic violence and the Israel–Palestine conflict have deepened global polarization.
- Adam Rizvi’s argument: societies grow stronger through inclusion, justice and opportunity, not division.
Recently, reports surfaced about a foreign restaurant owner in Japan being ordered to leave the country after more than three decades of living and working there. The case has sparked debate among immigrant communities and entrepreneurs who worry that policy changes may be making it harder for foreigners to remain in countries where they have spent much of their lives building businesses and contributing to society.
At the same time, immigration enforcement has intensified in several countries, including the United States and parts of Europe. Governments often say such policies are necessary to maintain law and order, regulate borders, and respond to political pressures at home. Yet for immigrants — both legal residents and undocumented individuals — these shifts can create deep uncertainty.
The issue extends beyond immigration enforcement alone. In many regions, politics has increasingly intertwined with identity, religion, and nationalism.
In India, the political landscape under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has generated both strong support and strong criticism. Supporters credit the government with economic development, infrastructure expansion, and a stronger global presence. Critics, however, raise concerns about growing polarization and the treatment of minorities.
Episodes such as the ethnic violence in Manipur in 2023 shocked many observers when disturbing videos circulated online showing women being humiliated during clashes between communities. The incident triggered national and international condemnation and raised questions about how governments respond to communal violence and protect vulnerable citizens.
Meanwhile, geopolitical conflicts also influence public discourse. The ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Territories has stirred strong emotions globally. Social media has amplified voices from across the spectrum, sometimes fueling anger and polarization rather than dialogue.
Yet amid these tensions, one principle should remain clear: societies grow stronger when they invest in inclusion, justice, and opportunity rather than division.
Throughout history, countries that embraced diversity and respected the rule of law have generally emerged more resilient and prosperous. Those that allowed hatred, discrimination, or political extremism to dominate often paid a heavy price — socially, economically, and morally.
The United States remains one of the most powerful examples of how immigrants, refugees, and diverse communities can collectively build a nation. Despite ongoing debates about immigration policy, the American experience continues to demonstrate that diversity, when guided by fairness and equal opportunity, can be a source of extraordinary strength.
The global challenge today is not simply about borders or policies. It is about values.
Do we allow fear, anger, and division to shape our societies?
Or do we choose the more difficult but ultimately more rewarding path of building inclusive communities that respect human dignity?
Destroying trust between communities can happen quickly. Rebuilding it can take generations.
As nations navigate the pressures of modern politics, economic competition, and global conflict, leaders everywhere face a fundamental test: whether they will choose policies that unite people or rhetoric that divides them.
The future of our societies may depend on that choice.
Editorial Reflection — Adam Rizvi
As journalists and citizens, we must remember that building bridges between communities is always harder than tearing them down. The world today needs more compassion, dialogue, and responsible leadership. Humanity’s progress has always depended on our ability to see each other not as enemies or outsiders, but as fellow human beings deserving of dignity and respect.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the article about?
The global tightening of immigration policy and the rise of identity-driven nationalism, and why inclusion makes societies stronger.
What examples does it cite?
A foreign restaurant owner ordered to leave Japan after 30+ years; Manipur 2023; the Israel–Palestine conflict; US and European enforcement.
Is this an opinion piece?
Yes. It is Adam Rizvi’s opinion as Editor-in-Chief, clearly labeled as such.
What is its central argument?
Destroying trust between communities is quick; rebuilding it takes generations. The choice is between fear and inclusion.
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