The number of Venezuelan immigrant women in Brazil is increasing

The number of Venezuelan immigrant women is increasing: an exodus in search of security and opportunities

The years 2023 and 2024 mark a significant increase in the number of Venezuelan women seeking refuge in neighboring countries, such as Brazil, Colombia and Peru. Second United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), more than 7 million Venezuelans have left the country since 2014 and women represent a growing portion of this contingent.

The motivations for this migration are complex and multifaceted, but some of the main factors driving the Venezuelan female exodus mainly include the humanitarian and socioeconomic crisis in Venezuela. The shortage of food, medicine and other basic necessities, which has intensified since 2017, has made life in the country extremely difficult, especially for women, who are often responsible for caring for the family.

Uncontrolled hyperinflation erodes families’ purchasing power, making it difficult to access basic needs such as food and healthcare.

The lack of work and income opportunities, combined with growing insecurity and violence, makes the future uncertain and dangerous, especially for women and girls.

Violence is also a factor in increasing immigration. Gender-based violence, including femicide, domestic violence and sexual abuse, is an alarming reality in Venezuela. Impunity and the inefficiency of the judicial system contribute to fueling the feeling of insecurity and vulnerability among women.

Increasing political repression and human rights violations also put at risk the safety of women who oppose the authoritarian regime.

Seek better living conditions

Venezuelan women are often discriminated against in the labor market and have less access to education and professional development opportunities.

In search of better living conditions for themselves and their children, many women decide to emigrate to countries with greater economic and social stability.

In this context, it is worth noting that social networks facilitate access to information on migration opportunities and connection with other women who have already migrated, serving as networks of support and guidance.

Communication with family and friends already in other countries also contributes to the decision to migrate, especially for women who wish to reunite with loved ones.

The impacts of female migration

The migration of Venezuelan women has social, economic and cultural impacts on both the countries of origin and those of destination.

The flight of women of reproductive age could have a negative impact on the country’s birth rate and social development.

The loss of human capital, especially skilled and educated women, could make Venezuela’s recovery from the current crisis even more difficult.

In destination countries, Venezuelan migrant women face challenges such as xenophobia, discrimination and difficulties in entering the job market.

Access to basic services such as healthcare, education and housing can be a challenge, especially for women who do not have regularized documents.

Work overload, the need to balance work and family care and a lack of social support can impact the mental and physical health of migrant women.

Venezuelan humanitarian crisis

The increase in the number of Venezuelan women emigrating to other countries is a reflection of the serious humanitarian, social and political crisis plaguing Venezuela. Migrant women are agents of change and can significantly contribute to the development of destination countries.

It is essential that governments and civil society take measures to ensure the protection of migrant women’s rights and facilitate their social and economic integration.

André Forastieri is a journalist and entrepreneur, founder of Homework and the content and connections agency Compasso, as well as a mentor to professionals and executives. Find out more aboutandreforastieri.com.br

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Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.