Argentina
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Thomas Maier
Introduction
Arguably, no other country in the New World was transformed by the great cycle of migration of the 19th and 20th centuries as profoundly as Argentina. In a relatively short period of time - from roughly 1870 to 1930 - with the arrival of approximately six million people, the dynamics of migration contributed significantly to the creation of a modern, predominantly urban and industrial society.
Thomas Maier
Historical Developments of Immigration and Emigration
Arguably, no other country in the New World was transformed by the great cycle of migration of the 19th and 20th centuries as profoundly as Argentina. From roughly 1870 to 1930 approximately six million Europeans arrived in the country importing the notion of a “white” society, still dominant today, despite the fact that currently most immigrants come from the neighboring Latin American countries. European immigrants were actively recruited since they were reputed to be the main drivers of civilization and modernity.
Thomas Maier
Recent Developments of Immigration and Emigration
Since the founding of the republic in the early 19th century, Argentina has been a magnet for immigrants from neighboring countries. Their immigration did, however, challenge the dominant image of a society made up of European immigrants and their descendants. To date, non-European immigrants find themselves in a position of social marginality and relative exclusion.
Thomas Maier
The Immigrant Population
Ever since, Argentina has been an important destination for immigrants from Europe, neighboring Latin American countries and other parts of the world. As a result, the country's population is very heterogeneous.
Thomas Maier
Argentines Abroad
Argentina has a long history of immigration. The country does, however, also witness emigration flows. Many Argentines left the country during the aftermath of the financial crisis in 2001, seeking better prospects for their future abroad, especially in Spain and the USA. With the worsening economic outlook in light of the financial crisis in Southern Europe, many of them have, however, decided to return to Argentina.
Thomas Maier
Changing Legal Frameworks of Immigration and Regularization
Once the republic was established in the 19th century, Argentina actively recruited immigrants from Europe. In the time of the great transatlantic migrations the country became the second most important destination in the New World after the United States. It was only under the rule of military juntas at different periods of time during the 20th century when immigration policy became more restrictive. Reforms since the beginning of the 21st century have strengthened immigrants' rights and have once again led to a more liberal approach towards immigration.
Thomas Maier
Citizenship
In Argentina, there has been a long tradition of immigration. Between roughly 1870 and 1930 about six million Europeans arrived in the country. Today, it is especially people from neighboring Latin American countries who immigrate to Argentina. Immigrants can acquire Argentine citizenship through birth on Argentine soil or naturalization. A reform in 2004 has eased the prerequisites for naturalization.
Thomas Maier
Refuge and Asylum - Refugee Policy
Throughout its history, immigration has had a significant impact on Argentina. Not all of them came to the country voluntarily. In 1985, the country started to grant refugee status. It was, however, only in 2006 that the country passed a genuine refugee law. Yet, to date, the number of asylum claims remains fairly low, at least in comparison to many European states.
Thomas Maier
Challenges and Outlook
Argentina is a country with a long-standing history of immigration. The Constitution of 1854 already emphasized the importance of immigration for the country's development. Especially European migrants were regarded as drivers of social modernization and were actively recruited. It was only under the rule of military juntas at different periods of time during the 20th century when immigration policy became more restrictive. Reforms since the beginning of the 21st century have strengthened immigrants' rights and have once again led to a more open approach towards immigration.
Coutry Profile 32: Argentina
References and Further Reading
Here you can find literature and further reading for Country Profile 32 "Argentina" by Thomas Maier.
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