Chile survey shows rising support for migrants but growing labor concerns

An Ipsos monthly poll (report N°52 “Claves Ipsos”) of 1,000 Chileans shows a more positive view of migration. Seventy‑two percent now consider migration a human right, up five points, and 60 % believe the country can benefit from migrants, while the same share says the state must protect their rights. Support for guaranteeing health and education to migrants falls to 50 %.

Labor worries are increasing. The share of respondents who cite growth in informal employment rose from 30 % to 35 %, and concerns about fewer job openings and wage pressure grew from 26 % to 30 %. Still, 68 % associate migration with new types of crime, a five‑point drop.

The study highlights the North Grande region (Antofagasta, Atacama, Coquimbo), where migrant workers are common in mining, agriculture, construction and services. Ninety‑three percent of non‑migrants report recent contact with migrants; 65 % rate the interaction positively, only 10 % negatively. Among migrants, 73 % say they have faced discrimination or xenophobia. Ipsos Chile public‑opinion director Alejandra Ojeda Mayorga warned that fears of cheaper labour and informality are driving the labour‑related concerns.