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.