The Roles of International and Regional Organizations during the South American Migration Crisis

This chapter explores the roles of international and regional organizations during the South American migration crisis, highlighting the complex dynamics between various regional international organizations (IOs) and their interactions with global counterparts. Focusing on the Organization of American States, Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) and Forum for the Progress and Integration of South America (PROSUR), the chapter examines their responses to migratory challenges from the 2000s to the present.

While regional IOs have predominantly assumed a bystander role, the International Organization for Migration and the United Nations Refugee Agency have stepped in to fulfil roles of leadership and crisis management, along with providing stabilization. These roles align with both the situational demands and the role expectations of South American states.

However, the chapter notes the limited effectiveness of regional IOs, particularly UNASUR and PROSUR, due to a lack of robust institutional capacity and coordination mechanisms to address migration challenges. Member states have also undermined these regional organizations, opting for more restrictive measures without deviating significantly from global IO norms.

Despite the limitations of regional IOs, global counterparts have played a significant role in alleviating migratory stress and ensuring the welfare of migrants in host countries. However, their impact is mediated by the actions and priorities of affected states within the region.