Sun Nov 30 06:13:17 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Title: Migrant Crisis Grips Chile-Peru Border Amidst Election Fears

Chacalluta, Chile – November 30, 2025 – Dozens of undocumented migrants, primarily from Venezuela, are stranded along the Chilean-Peruvian border, seeking to leave Chile due to fears of a potential crackdown following the upcoming presidential election on December 14.

Far-right presidential candidate Jose Antonio Kast, currently the frontrunner, has vowed to expel hundreds of thousands of undocumented migrants if elected. This has triggered a mass exodus attempt, with many migrants heading toward Peru.

However, the Peruvian government has declared a state of emergency along its border with Chile, reinforcing its military presence to prevent migrants from crossing. Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela has stated that Peru will not accept any more irregular migrants.

The situation is dire, with migrants, including children, enduring harsh conditions in the desert heat during the day and plummeting temperatures at night. Regional Governor of Arica, Diego Paco, has expressed concern for their welfare.

The number of undocumented migrants in Chile has surged in recent years, from approximately 10,000 in 2018 to around 330,000 by 2024. While they currently have access to public health services and education for their children, some Chilean residents have blamed the increased migration for a rise in crime.

Some migrants, like Billy Gonzalez, an optical technician from Venezuela, expressed frustration with the situation, urging authorities to provide transportation to other countries that would allow them to continue their journey.

Published by: The Hindu

News Article Version:

Migrant Crisis Erupts at Chile-Peru Border as Election Looms

Chacalluta, Chile – A humanitarian crisis is unfolding at the Chilean-Peruvian border as dozens of undocumented migrants, primarily Venezuelans, are stranded, desperately seeking passage out of Chile. The exodus is fueled by fears of mass deportations promised by far-right presidential candidate Jose Antonio Kast, who is favored to win the upcoming December 14th election.

Kast has pledged to expel hundreds of thousands of undocumented migrants, prompting a rush to leave before a potential crackdown. Neighboring Peru, however, has shut its doors, declaring a state of emergency and deploying troops to reinforce its border, effectively blocking migrants from entering.

“We are not going to accept any more irregular migrants,” stated Peruvian Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela.

The stranded migrants, including families with children, are facing harsh conditions in the arid desert landscape. They are exposed to scorching heat during the day and freezing temperatures at night. Diego Paco, regional governor of the Chilean border area of Arica, voiced serious concern for their safety and well-being.

The influx of undocumented migrants into Chile has exploded in recent years, rising from 10,000 in 2018 to an estimated 330,000 by 2024. While currently entitled to healthcare and education, the increasing migrant population has become a point of contention, with some Chileans blaming them for a perceived rise in crime.

“I understand that criminals have come from my country, but so have good people who just want to work,” said Billy Gonzalez, a Venezuelan migrant trapped at the border. Gonzalez and others are appealing for assistance, requesting safe passage to alternative destinations where they might continue their journeys back to Venezuela. The situation remains tense, with the future of these migrants hanging in the balance as the Chilean election approaches.

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