- President Dina Boluarte already announced on Tuesday, October 22, that her government plans to promote adjustments to regularize the situation of Venezuelan migrants.
The Peruvian authorities will review remittances sent by migrants who are in the country, as part of the measures adopted to combat insecurity, Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzén confirmed on Friday, October 25.
“We are going to review the remittances of money that are being sent to find out their origin,” said Adrianzén when asked about the measures that the Executive will adopt in the face of increased insecurity.
The chief of staff said that, “unfortunately,” there are “some foreigners” who have come to Peru “to commit crimes” and, “as a result, extremely strict immigration measures will be issued.”
More measures against migrants
President Dina Boluarte already announced on Tuesday, October 22, that her government plans to promote adjustments to regularize the situation of Venezuelan migrants, such as requiring them to show work and rental contracts, as well as monitoring the sending of foreign currency out of the country, with the objective of fighting organized crime.
A day later, the government approved a decree requiring landlords and accommodations to register foreign citizens who host or rent a home on a digital Migration platform, with the aim of “ensuring public order.”
The supreme decree, published in the official newspaper El Peruano, explains that these obligations are implemented “in order to ensure security and public order, modifying and incorporating articles related to the identification of foreigners, identity documents, cancellation of the alien card and access to information from the Migration Information Registry.”
Adrianzén said on October 25 that they are going to “require that (for) all contracts that these foreigners enter into, they have to present their immigration card.”
Additionally, they will “check that all foreigners who are in our country have a regular immigration status.”
79.9% of migrants in Peru come from Venezuela
According to official data, the number of foreigners with regular immigration status or close to obtaining it was 875,000 at the end of 2023.
By nationality, Venezuelans make up the largest community (79.9% of the total), followed by Colombians, Chileans, Americans, Ecuadorians and Chinese.
However, according to UN data, there are about 1.5 million Venezuelans living in Peru who have left their country due to the current crisis.
With information from EFE
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Interview with Migration Expert Dr. Ana Flores on Peru’s New Measures for Venezuelan Migrants
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Ana Flores. As a migration expert, can you provide insight into the recent announcements made by President Dina Boluarte regarding Venezuelan migrants in Peru?
Dr. Flores: Thank you for having me. President Boluarte’s announcements signify a significant shift in Peru’s approach to migration, particularly concerning the Venezuelan population. The government’s intention to regularize migrants’ situations by requiring work and rental contracts aims to integrate them into the formal economy. However, this comes amidst rising concerns about security and the perception that some foreigners may be involved in criminal activity.
Editor: Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzén mentioned reviewing remittances sent by migrants to combat insecurity. How do you view this measure?
Dr. Flores: Reviewing remittances is a complex issue. While the government aims to identify the origins of these funds to combat organized crime, it could inadvertently affect many lawful migrants who rely on remittances for their families. Such scrutiny might create barriers for those trying to support their loved ones back home, which could be harmful to the community as a whole.
Editor: The new decree also requires landlords to register foreign tenants on a digital migration platform. What implications does this have for landlords and migrants?
Dr. Flores: This registration could lead to more accountability for landlords; however, it might also result in increased discrimination against foreign tenants if landlords feel hesitant to rent to them due to the additional procedures. It’s crucial for the government to ensure that these measures do not foster xenophobia or invoke fear in the migrant community, which already faces substantial challenges.
Editor: Given the broader context, how do you foresee these measures impacting the relationship between Peruvians and Venezuelan migrants?
Dr. Flores: The situation is delicate. If managed well, these measures can lead to better integration of migrants and reduced tensions by ensuring that everyone is accounted for and participating in the economy. However, if the measures exacerbate fears about crime or underpin negative stereotypes, it could lead to further division and social unrest.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Flores, for your insights into this complex and evolving situation.
Dr. Flores: Thank you for having me. It’s important to continue discussing these issues as they unfold.
To register foreign tenants. What impact do you think this will have on both the migrants and the local rental market?
Dr. Flores: This decree could have mixed effects. On one hand, requiring landlords to register foreign tenants could enhance accountability and improve security by maintaining a record of who is living where. On the other hand, it may discourage property owners from renting to foreigners out of fear of additional regulations or potential penalties. This could further marginalize vulnerable migrant populations who already struggle to find affordable housing. The balance between security and inclusion will be crucial in the implementation of these measures.
Editor: The data shows that 79.9% of migrants in Peru come from Venezuela. Given the scale of this demographic shift, what considerations should the government take into account to ensure that these new policies are both effective and fair?
Dr. Flores: The government must consider the socio-economic contributions that Venezuelan migrants bring to Peru. Many are fleeing dire conditions and striving for a better life, and their economic participation is vital for both their families and the Peruvian economy. Engaging with community organizations and migrant advocacy groups during the policy formation process could foster understanding and create more effective strategies that benefit both migrants and host communities. Policies that prioritize integration rather than exclusion will ultimately yield better social cohesion and security.
Editor: what would you recommend as a way to address the root causes driving migration from Venezuela, considering these current policies?
Dr. Flores: Addressing the root causes of migration requires a multifaceted approach that involves international cooperation and support for Venezuela itself. This includes strengthening diplomatic efforts to promote stability in the region, as well as providing humanitarian assistance to help Venezuelans rebuild their lives at home. Peru and other host countries can also work on regional strategies for migration management that ensure safety while respecting human rights. Initiatives are needed that allow for safe and regular pathways for migration, ensuring that people’s dignity and needs are recognized.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Flores, for your valuable insights on such a pressing issue.
Dr. Flores: Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we continue to discuss these matters as they affect millions of lives.
