Free movement and the World Order

Freedom of movement is enshrined in the foundation document of the human rights movement, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Freedom of movement is one of the necessary goods of life. It is not difficult to see why. Free movement begets a free life. A free life means better life chances for the individual. Where an individual lives determines a person's life, liberty, and well-being. Free movement as a fundamental right recognises' the ageless quest of individuals for a better life everywhere'. It is possible to argue that twentieth century restrictions on free movement rights should be seen not as a norm. They are a departure from what has been the historical norm in human society. This article thus leads to the conclusion that there is a compelling case for some form of a legalisation of free movement rights in the interests of world order in the twenty-first century, if only in the context of a right to work and then settle. This legalisation would be a step towards 'rational' policy formulation. A rational policy on migration would eliminate waste, aid both developing and developed societies, and bring attendant benefits to voluntary migrants and involuntary refugees alike. (c) Oxford University Press 2004; all rights reserved.