THE VENEZUELAN EXODUS: MIGRATION, EMPLOYMENT, AND ECONOMIC INTEGRATION IN SOUTH AMERICA

Research on Venezuelan migration has primarily focused on humanitarian crises and
immediate socio-economic impacts, with limited attention given to the complex dynamics
of labor market integration and regional economic policies. However, understanding these
dimensions is essential to addressing the broader implications of migration on host
societies. To fill this gap, this article explores the economic integration of Venezuelan
migrants in South America, emphasizing labor market dynamics, public resource pressures,
and policy responses. Grounded in migration and labor market theories, the study employs
a mixed-methods approach, combining secondary data from regional organizations with
empirical findings from national reports in Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. The results
demonstrate significant contributions by Venezuelan migrants to critical industries such as
agriculture, construction, and services, while also identifying persistent barriers, including
legal restrictions and labor market informality. As a contribution, this article provides a
comprehensive analysis of regional migration policies and offers actionable
recommendations to enhance economic integration, supporting long-term development and
resilience in host countries.
Keywords: Venezuela Migration, Economic Integration, Labor Market Dynamics,
Migration Policy, South America.