Objective/Context:

International migrations open the debate on citizenship, inclusion, and human rights, as well as sovereignty, national security, and selectivity. Chile is not oblivious to these tensions, challenges, and opportunities. Addressing the period from the 1990s to the present day, we analyze international migration narratives and how they are expressed by the country’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Migration.

Methodology:

We use a qualitative method and case study to examine the historical and political factors in depth. Similarly, the historical analysis we include shows the continuities and changes in international migration’s conceptualization and laws.

Conclusions:

There is a struggle to define the national/international limits that permeates the discussions on citizenship and international migration. Likewise, visions focused on national security compete against others focused on rights. We believe that after the social outbreak in Chile, there is a new structure of political and social opportunities to discuss a migration law and a Constitution that addresses the rights of migrants, rules of due process, mechanisms for social and political participation.

Originality:

This article discusses the recognition and representation of emerging citizenship, a fundamental theme in the increasingly numerous multicultural societies of the 21st century. Likewise, an international and political perspective, rarely used in migration studies, particularly in Chile, is included.