Historically, the migratory history of Paraguay has been ambiguous, since it has had periods of large scale emigration as well as large waves of immigrants, primarily from Europe.[1]
Ethnically, Paraguay considers itself as a mestizo country, the result of intermarriage between Amerindians (mainly Guaraní) and Europeans (mostly of Spanish origin). Unlike neighbouring countries like Argentina or Brazil, Paraguay did not attract massive numbers of immigrants, but this does not imply that it has not been a recipient thereof. However, during the 19th century the country suffered a devastating war that greatly reduced its population, having to rise from the ashes and repopulate their territory with the help of immigrants.
During the 20th century, Paraguay became a recipient of immigrants, especially Europeans fleeing wars occurring in the Old World, in search of a better life and peace. Among European groups in the country, this includes those of Spanish, German (many of them being Mennonites), Italian, French and Slavic origin. Other groups included these of Levantine/Arabs roots (mostly Christian Lebanese and Syrians) and East Asians (such as the Chinese and Japanese), among others.[2]
Today, immigration to Paraguay has not ceased, but the places of origin of the newcomers have changed. According to the 2002 census, 84,2% of immigrants in Paraguay come from Brazil and Argentina.[3]
- ^ Univisión. "Paraguay, país de inmigrantes" (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 13 March 2013. Retrieved 24 November 2014.
- ^ "Inmigrantes europeos en Paraguay 1818 - 1930" (in Spanish). Retrieved 22 November 2014.
- ^ Organización Internacional para las Migraciones (OIM). "Perfil Migratorio de Paraguay 2011" (PDF) (in Spanish). Retrieved 14 May 2015.[permanent dead link]