International Migrations to Brazil in the 21st Century: Profile, Outlook and Trends

Abstract

This paper analyses immigration flows in Brazil and their dynamics and networks during the first two decades of the 21st century using thematic cartography and quantitative data analysis. Interpreting information obtained through field research in four regions of the country, we infer that Brazil is following the standard routes and global agenda of international migrations. The main findings of the research point to an increase in the flow of non-traditional countries of origin, especially those from the Caribbean, West Africa and Asia. The post-2015 trends of immigration flows point to a sharp fall after two immigration booms, possibly due to worsening economic and political factors. It is inferred that historical migrations from countries from the Iberian Peninsula and Latin America impacted the consolidation of Brazil, which was the main recipient country of these immigrants during the economic crises of 2008 and 2012. An attempt is made to identify the primary migratory flows of economic immigrants and refugees from each continent towards Brazil in the present context.