Mexico"s migration strategy aims to reduce US border crossings

Mexico's Foreign Secretary Alicia Bárcena has outlined a comprehensive migration strategy aimed at reducing irregular crossings into the United States, which has reportedly decreased by 66%. The plan, known as the 'Mexican Model of Human Mobility,' includes a $133 million investment in migrants' countries of origin and the establishment of two new care centers in Chiapas. These centers will assist migrants seeking asylum in the U.S. by providing safe transfers to the northern border once they secure appointments through the CBP One platform. The strategy is a response to the significant influx of migrants, with 712,000 entering Mexico in the first half of 2024 alone. Bárcena emphasized the importance of creating safe routes for migrants, particularly as the U.S. has limited daily crossings to 4,000. The Mexican government is now responsible for transporting migrants with confirmed asylum appointments to the border, aiming to mitigate the dangers associated with their journey through Mexico. In addition to the care centers, the Mexican Commission for Refugee Aid (Comar) is receiving support to handle the increasing number of asylum requests, which reached a historic 140,000 in 2023. The first care center in Tapachula will accommodate 1,500 asylum seekers daily, while a second center in Huitxla will focus on migrant families. This initiative reflects a shift in Mexico's approach to migration, recognizing it as a regional issue rather than solely a bilateral problem with the U.S. Bárcena's strategy is expected to continue under President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, highlighting a commitment to humanizing mobility and addressing the unique migratory characteristics of the region. The plan aims to ensure that migration is managed with care and respect for human rights, ultimately fostering safer conditions for those seeking refuge or better opportunities.