Lima, Peru – The Peruvian government declared a 60-day state of emergency along its southern border with Chile on Friday, citing concerns over a potential influx of migrants. The move comes amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment in Chile and ahead of the country’s upcoming presidential runoff election.
The decision reflects growing apprehension about a potential reverse migration of migrants, predominantly Venezuelans, currently residing in Chile without legal documentation. Many fear that the outcome of the Chilean election could lead to their deportation.
Peruvian President Jose Gerry stated that the state of emergency would provide the country with the necessary “calm and readiness” to address the “risk of undocumented migrants entering” Peru. The decree authorizes the armed forces to support the police in securing the border, particularly in the Tacna region, a key transit point between the two nations.
General Arturo Valverde, head of the Peruvian police, indicated that at least 100 migrants, primarily Venezuelans, are currently waiting at the border crossing, attempting to enter Peru. He emphasized that security measures have been intensified in anticipation of any new wave of arrivals.
The Peruvian government’s action is also influenced by the tense political climate in Chile ahead of the December 14th election, which pits far-right candidate Jose Antonio Kast against leftist contender, Janet Jara. Kast has made immigration a central theme of his campaign, employing strong rhetoric against undocumented migrants, many of whom are Venezuelan.
“You have 103 days to leave Chile voluntarily,” Kast stated in a video posted during a visit to the Chilean-Peruvian border. “If you don’t, we will arrest you and deport you, and you will only take what you are wearing.” This statement has heightened fears among migrants that a Kast victory could trigger mass deportations, prompting some to attempt to leave the country before the election results are finalized.
Footage shared by the governor of Chile’s Arica region showed numerous migrants, including children, attempting to cross the border from Chile.
