Chile’s Migration Crisis: Challenges and Solutions

Luis Eduardo Thayer, director of the National Migration Service, recently discussed the migration crisis in Chile, which has been exacerbated by the closure of the Venezuelan consulate in the country.

Understanding the Crisis

Thayer acknowledged that Chile has been facing difficulties with irregular migration for several years, particularly since the pandemic. The country has seen an unprecedented number of people with irregular migration status, with 182 thousand people attending the biometric registration process in 2023.

Strengthening Migration Policies

Thayer emphasized the need to strengthen migration policies and measures to better regulate the migratory flow and manage the border. This includes improving expulsion methods and ensuring that the increase in irregular migration does not continue.

The Challenge of Expulsion

Thayer noted that while decrees of expulsion have been issued for individuals in irregular situations, it is still not enough. He stated that it is impossible to expel 30,000 people between now and the end of the year.

The Role of the Venezuelan Consulate

Thayer explained that the closure of the Venezuelan consulate has made it almost impossible to expel Venezuelans. The consul’s verification of a person’s identity is required for expulsion, but this has not been possible since the consulate’s closure. As a result, the focus has shifted to other nations.

Thayer’s comments highlight the complexities of the migration crisis in Chile and the need for effective solutions to address the challenges posed by irregular migration.