Chile investigates alleged abuse of Haitian child migrants

In late June, Chile’s Comptroller Office raised alarms that Haitian children arriving in the country were victims of a trafficking network involving illegal migration, organ trade and abandonment. The report sparked public outcry and accusations of discrimination against the government of President Gabriel Boric. By the end of the week, the national police (PDI) announced that all 64 cases had been located, the children were in good health, and their reunification and schooling processes were continuing. Haitian community representatives warned that the initial media coverage stigmatized the children and reinforced xenophobic attitudes.

The episode highlighted ongoing tensions over immigration policy, the role of the migration service, and broader political polarization in Chile, with critics linking the scandal to broader governance debates.