Venezuelan migrants could boost host countries' growth

Significance Millions of Venezuelans have fled their homeland in recent years as living standards have deteriorated rapidly, with the vast majority settling in other South American nations. Despite mounting xenophobia among local populations, research suggests that greater integration could help harness economic benefits. Impacts The increasing popularity of security-focused, anti-immigrant politics in receiving countries may undermine integration efforts. Deportations and rising xenophobia will encourage some Venezuelans to return home or travel to the United States. Some migrants who return may then relocate to neighbouring countries such as Colombia, rather than further afield.