Social Implications Of Immigration In Chile: A Comprehensive Analysis
Camila Fernández Herrera
Diego Portales University, Santiago, Chile
Abstract
In the era of globalization, immigration has become a pressing issue worldwide, extending its impact beyond traditional immigration destinations like the United States to countries that have traditionally been associated with emigration, such as Chile. Recent demographic changes have transformed Chile into a significant destination for immigrants, marking a notable shift from its historical role as a transit country.
Data from Chile's National Institute of Statistics indicates a substantial increase in the country's migration rate between 2002 and 2012, with projections showing continued growth. As of 2015, Chile is home to approximately 441,000 documented immigrants, constituting 2.7% of its population. The majority of these immigrants originate from various Latin American countries, according to the Foreign Affairs and Immigration Department (Amnistía Internacional, 2015).
While previous research on immigration in Chile has primarily focused on demographic and historical aspects, recent studies suggest that public perceptions and reactions toward immigration share commonalities with those observed in other countries receiving immigrants. Some segments of society perceive the influx of foreigners as a potential "invasion" that may impact employment opportunities and crime rates (Doña, 2001; Norambuena, 2004).
This study seeks to explore the dynamics of immigration in Chile, shedding light on the evolving social landscape, perceptions, and implications of immigration in a country that is increasingly becoming a destination for people from diverse backgrounds