The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has confirmed a notable drop in irregular migrant crossings, including those by Cubans, over recent months. According to an official statement, CBP reported a sharp decline of over 60% in encounters between ports of entry from May to November this year, reaching the lowest levels since July 2020.
This trend is largely attributed to the migration policies and international agreements enacted by President Joe Biden's administration. In November, 8,362 Cubans were apprehended at the border, a figure that includes both illegal entry attempts by sea and by land, marking an increase of about 100 individuals from the previous month. The most significant number of Cuban migrants detected at the border since 2022 occurred in December of that year, with over 44,000 reported cases.
Key policies influencing the decline in illegal crossings at the southern border include the June 2024 presidential proclamation temporarily suspending migrant entry, an increase in swift deportations, and a reduction in the number of individuals released while awaiting immigration court hearings. During the review period, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) doubled the percentage of migrants processed under Expedited Removal procedures, thereby intensifying the repercussions for unauthorized crossings.
This reduction in crossings unfolds against a political backdrop marked by Donald Trump's announcement that, upon reclaiming the presidency in January 2025, he plans to implement mass deportations as part of his immigration strategy. Trump's focus is on tightening policies for those attempting to enter the United States unlawfully. His controversial approach is causing uncertainty among migrants, particularly Cubans, despite their continued eligibility to regularize their status under the Cuban Adjustment Act.
The CBP statement also highlights collaborative efforts with Mexico and Central American countries as critical to reducing border crossings. In November, the Border Patrol recorded 46,610 encounters between ports of entry, an 18% decrease from October and a staggering 76% reduction compared to November 2023. Additionally, crossings by Cuban nationals and others included in parole processes, such as those from Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, have plummeted by 98% since these policies were implemented. This indicates a significant shift in migratory patterns toward the southern border.
Amid these stricter measures, the message from the United States is clear: entering the country illegally is becoming increasingly challenging, particularly with the potential return of a Republican administration promising tougher policies.
Understanding the Changes in Cuban Migrant Crossings
What factors have contributed to the decrease in Cuban migrant crossings?
The decrease in Cuban migrant crossings is largely due to stricter U.S. immigration policies and international agreements, including increased deportations and reduced releases of migrants awaiting court hearings.
How have international collaborations affected border crossings?
Collaborations with Mexico and Central American countries have been crucial in reducing border crossings, as these efforts have helped manage and control migrant flows more effectively.
What is the impact of Expedited Removal on migrant crossings?
Expedited Removal has doubled the processing of migrants, strengthening the consequences for those crossing illegally and contributing to the overall decline in unauthorized entries.