La migración norte-sur. Inmigrantes norteamericanos jubilados, documentados, domiciliados en la parroquia San Sebastián

Abstract

Current reality shows that migratory flows are changing drastically in a globalized world. In this context, reviewing new migratory theories will allow us to understand the new form of North - South human mobility that Ecuador experiences. This research analyzes the increase in the number of foreigners from the northern countries, especially retired US citizens, who have migrated to the city of Cuenca with the intention of living permanently in our country. This phenomenon has not been deepened, so the present research analyzes the theoretical framework, as well as the antecedents of this type of migration in order to contribute in the generation of public policies of human mobility adjusted to this reality.

The research sought to determine the perspectives of the United States on factors of expulsion and migration attraction through an ethnographic study. It examines the main elements through which the city of Cuenca, specifically San Sebastian sector, has been chosen as a migratory destination, as well as the citizen’s perspective on the impact of the arrival of this group of foreigners on local people.

Finally, the hypothesis verified responds precisely to the fact that this population chose Cuenca as a destination due to economic factors and appreciated qualities, which together offer a better quality of life; and that the expulsion factor was the global economic crisis.