Guatemala"s circular migration: a path to safer US work opportunities

In Guatemala, many families face poverty and social exclusion, prompting a search for better job opportunities. The circular migration programme, initiated by the Cuarto Pinos agricultural co-operative and the Juan Francisco García Foundation, offers legal pathways for temporary work in the US. Participants, like Chile, who obtained an H-2A visa, have experienced significant improvements in their lives, including better education and healthcare access for their families. This programme has allowed migrants to earn money, invest in local businesses, and support their communities. The programme has also contributed to shifting gender roles within families, promoting gender equity and empowering women. As men migrate for work, women often take on new responsibilities, leading to a gradual change in traditional dynamics. The remittances sent back home have become a crucial source of income, motivating many to consider migration as a viable option. Despite the benefits of circular migration, the numbers of participants remain low compared to those attempting to cross the US border illegally. In 2022, around 11,000 temporary workers arrived in the US under these programmes, while significantly higher numbers faced deportation or encounters with law enforcement. This disparity highlights the ongoing migration crisis in the Americas and the need for more effective solutions. Overall, the circular migration programme represents a safer alternative for Guatemalans seeking work in the US, allowing them to contribute to their home communities while avoiding the dangers associated with irregular migration routes.