THEY EXPEL IRREGULAR IMMIGRANTS IN CHILE

The expulsion of immigrants in Chile is a complex and controversial issue that has been in public debate for years. The government of President Gabriel Boric announced in May 2023 a series of measures to strengthen the mechanisms for expulsion of irregular immigrants, including the hiring of planes to deport those expelled.

These measures have been met with criticism from human rights organizations, who consider them discriminatory and violating human rights. Human rights organizations argue that expulsions should be a last resort, and that they should respect immigrants' fundamental rights, including the right to protection against discrimination and the right to a fair trial.

For its part, the Boric government has defended the expulsion measures, arguing that they are necessary to guarantee security and public order. The government maintains that irregular immigration has increased in recent years, and that it has contributed to the increase in crime and insecurity.

The context of immigration in Chile

Immigration to Chile has increased significantly in recent years. According to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), the foreign population in Chile increased from 1.2 million in 2017 to 2.3 million in 2023.

The increase in immigration is due to several factors, including the economic and political crisis in Venezuela, political instability in Central American countries and the rise of the Chilean economy.

The majority of immigrants in Chile come from Venezuela, Peru, Bolivia and Colombia. The majority of immigrants are in a regular situation, but a significant number are in an irregular situation.

The arguments in favor of expulsion

Defenders of the expulsion of irregular immigrants argue that this measure is necessary to guarantee security and public order. They maintain that irregular immigration has contributed to the increase in crime and insecurity, especially in large cities.

Expulsion advocates also argue that this measure is necessary to control migration. They maintain that irregular immigration is a problem that can overwhelm the State's capabilities.

The arguments against expulsion

Opponents of the expulsion of irregular immigrants argue that this measure is discriminatory and violates human rights. They maintain that expulsions should be a last resort, and that they must respect the fundamental rights of immigrants.

Opponents of expulsion also argue that this measure is ineffective. They maintain that expelled immigrants usually return to Chile, which generates a vicious circle.

The future of the expulsion of immigrants in Chile

The expulsion of immigrants in Chile is an issue that will continue to be debated in the coming years. The Boric government has announced that it will continue with the expulsion measures, but these measures are likely to be challenged in court.

The outcome of this debate will have a significant impact on Chilean immigration policy and the rights of immigrants in the country.

**In particular, the current immigration context in Chile is complex and challenging. On the one hand, the country faces a series of social and economic problems that have contributed to the increase in crime and insecurity. On the other hand, Chile is a country with a long tradition of immigration, and most immigrants contribute to the country's economy and society.

In this context, it is important to find a balance between security and human rights. Expulsions should be a last resort, and should respect the fundamental rights of immigrants.**

Some possible solutions to the problem of irregular immigration in Chile include:

Reform immigration law to make it more effective and fair.
Strengthen border control mechanisms to prevent irregular immigration.
Offer opportunities to immigrants to regularize their situation.

These solutions require a joint effort from the government, civil society and the immigrants themselves.