When Data Undermine Discourses: Migration and Post-Globalization in Chile

Abstract

This chapter analyzes how the political narrative that criminalizes migration inChile relates to the migration outlook according to official statistics. For thisanalysis, the discourses on migration under the administration of PresidentSebastián Piñera, who took oath in 2018, will be outlined before comparing itsaffirmations with demographic data and qualitative research on the topic. Dataon Chileans residing abroad and on migration within different regions of Chileare also examined to reveal that the phenomenon is indeed a heterogeneous one.In the conclusions, we point out that there are no empirical data to support thehypothesis that migrants in Chile pose or could pose a problem. The officialdata analyzed demonstrate just the contrary. Thus, the measures taken by thecurrent Chilean administration are not consistent with any possible reading ofState statistics. It is possible to observe that Piñera's plan to put the house inorder is a policy centered on controlling Chilean borders and consummatingregulatory processes but makes no effort toward acknowledging or integratingmigrants.