Population Mobility, Urbanization, and Labor Market Dynamics in Argentina
Population Mobility in Argentina
Historical Trends
Until the late 1960s, Greater Buenos Aires was the primary destination for migratory flows within Argentina. However, its attractiveness has since declined.
In the 1980s, mobility shifted towards Patagonian provinces due to state-promoted industrial promotion policies aimed at decentralizing the population and fostering local development.
Current Patterns
Internal migration is now primarily oriented within each province towards capital cities or major economic hubs.
Factors Driving Mobility
- Growing urban service provision
- Tourism industry development in certain localities
- Increased employment opportunities from decentralized national state functions
Urbanization and Demographic Redistribution
Urbanization Process
Urbanization involves a growing proportion of the population residing in cities, while rural populations decline.
Migration Patterns
Migration occurs from rural areas or small towns to medium and large cities.
Modernization of rural areas, limited job opportunities, and insufficient service provision contribute to migration from rural to intermediate cities.
Impact of Automobile Diffusion
The widespread use of automobiles has enabled farmers to reside in towns and commute to their fields.
In the Pampas region, intermediate cities have attracted investment and established various businesses and organizations, including shopping malls and markets.
Labor Market Dynamics in Argentina
Job Outsourcing
Job outsourcing has become a hallmark of labor market evolution in Argentina.
Industrialization and the growth of low-productivity tertiary sector activities have contributed to outsourcing.
Labor Markets and Global Change
Economic globalization has led to the diversification of activities and consumption patterns.
Privatization and the adoption of new technologies have influenced working conditions and reduced labor demand.
Technological advancements have displaced workers, leading to unemployment.
Employment Definitions
Employed individuals are those who:
- Work at least one hour per week for pay
- Normally work 15 hours or more without pay
- Are suspended for less than a month
Effects of Unemployment and Underemployment
Unemployment and underemployment directly impact workers’ living conditions.
High unemployment rates increase poverty, as the labor market rejects low-skilled workers.
The problem of unemployment has led to the emergence of a”new poverty” excluding many from basic goods and services.
Social polarization widens the gap between social groups associated with low-productivity economic activities and those in productive sectors.
Unemployment and Immigration
Unemployment is associated with labor market conditions.
Argentina has historically met its labor needs through internal migration.
External migrants are attracted by better job opportunities and higher wages than in their home countries.
Internal migrants move within the country or from neighboring countries to meet labor demands in various industries.