Peru-Chile Border, November 28, 2025 – Peruvian President Jose Jeri announced a state of emergency along the border with Chile as thousands of undocumented migrants cross in anticipation of a Chilean immigration crackdown. The move has sparked concerns of a looming humanitarian crisis.

Jeri made the announcement on social media, citing risks to public safety from the influx of migrants, mostly Venezuelans, seeking refuge amid economic hardships in their home country. The state of emergency comes just weeks before Chile’s presidential run-off scheduled for December 14, where far-right candidate Jose Antonio Kast faces leftist Jeannette Jara.

Migration Surge Linked to Chilean Election

Kast has pledged to detain and expel undocumented migrants if elected, prompting many to cross into Peru in recent days. During a campaign visit to the border, Kast warned migrants they had “111 days to leave Chile voluntarily” or face expulsion.

Peruvian authorities reported at least 100 people seeking entry on Friday alone. Images broadcast by local media show families attempting to cross the border, heightening fears of overcrowding and insufficient resources.

Security Measures and Troop Deployment

President Jeri, a far-right leader who succeeded impeached predecessor Dina Boluarte in October, confirmed that troops would be deployed to the border to enforce the emergency measures. “We ARE going to declare a state of emergency at the border with Chile to generate tranquility before the risk of migrants entering without authorization,” he said on X (formerly Twitter).

Peruvian police General Arturo Valverde emphasized that the measures aim to maintain public safety for Peru’s population of roughly 34 million.

Regional Reactions

Chilean Minister of Security Luis Cordero criticized the election rhetoric, warning that it could worsen the humanitarian situation. “People cannot be used as a means to create controversy for the elections,” he said, highlighting the need to prevent a humanitarian crisis.

Estimates suggest around 330,000 undocumented people currently reside in Chile, though the number who have crossed into Peru in recent days remains unclear.