Reassessing Migration Outcomes: Comparing Labour Market Integration of South Americans in Argentina, South Americans in Spain, and Non-Migrants in Their Origin Countries

Studies on the socioeconomic incorporation of migrants and their children in destination societies have been central to the research agendas of sociologists and economists. However, this body of work often reflects two primary limitations. First, most research focuses on South-North migration, despite significant numbers of migrants moving within the Global South. Second, there is a prevailing emphasis on comparing migrants and their children to native populations in host countries. While essential for understanding integration processes, this approach offers a limited view of migration outcomes. A more nuanced understanding can be achieved by examining migrants' performance not only in relation to natives but also against non-migrants in their countries of origin and their counterparts in other destinations. This approach, framed as “dissimilation” rather than “assimilation,” allows for a deeper exploration of how migration reshapes individuals’ opportunities (Guveli & Spierings, 2022). It also prompts inquiries into selection processes: who migrates, where they migrate, and the benefits they gain from these movements.

This study utilizes large-scale census microdata from 2001 to 2012 to analyse the labour market outcomes of Bolivian and Peruvian migrants in Argentina and Spain. Three key comparisons are explored: i) migrants in Argentina vs. migrants in Spain, ii) migrants vs. non-migrants at origin, and iii) migrants vs. native populations in destination countries. Additionally, the research investigates returns to education in the various contexts and the impact of time spent in the host country on these results.

Preliminary findings for Bolivians reveal that their occupational attainments are lower in Spain than in Argentina or Bolivia, with variations based on education level. Notably, the most educated migrants experience significant disadvantages, while those with less education show more similar occupational outcomes across contexts.