Europe’s refugee crisis is making headlines, but Latin America’s is just as alarming
The migration crisis we’re not talking about Image: REUTERS/Gael Gonzalez
The World Economic Forum reports on the widespread alarm over the explosion of refugees – which reached 21.3 million people in 2016 – together with growing angst over economic migrants. Today, at least one in 33 people on the planet is an international migrant. Now more than ever the determination of their status is shaping the direction of national politics and elections around the world.
The discussion is reaching fever pitch in the United States, where President Trump has issued controversial orders to restrict immigration – including asylum claimants – and round up and deport millions of undocumented immigrants. Meanwhile, reactionary nationalists in Europe are barricading the borders to keep out migrants and refugees making the desperate voyage from Central Asia, the Middle East and North Africa.
But there are other slower-burning migration emergencies that aren’t making international headlines: including those taking place in Mexico, within the so-called Northern Triangle countries of Central America, Venezuela and across South America. For further analysis, click here.
Jonathan Hiskey offers further observations on the changing migration patterns from Latin American on The Conversation.
KJ