The Mexican government has declared its readiness to accept Cuban migrants deported from the United States, who cannot be directly returned to their homeland. This new measure extends Mexico's existing policy of accepting migrants from other countries, including Nicaragua, Haiti, and Honduras, as reported by Milenio.
Zaira Carrasco Flores, head of the National Migration Institute's Representation Office in Chihuahua, has confirmed the presence of agreements between the two nations regarding the reception of these migrants, although she did not disclose specific numbers. Mexican authorities have set a deportation schedule that operates from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
This decision aligns with the broader migration policies enacted by President Donald Trump's administration since his return to power. These policies aim to tighten the grip on illegal immigration, significantly altering the migration dynamics within the region.
Among Trump's initial actions were the signing of at least 10 executive orders. These include measures like deploying the military to the Mexican border, reinstating controversial immigration programs, abolishing humanitarian parole, and deactivating the CBP One mobile app for asylum applications.
Moreover, the Trump administration has revived the "Remain in Mexico" program, officially known as the Migrant Protection Protocols. This mandates asylum seekers to stay in Mexico while their cases are processed in the U.S. Originally introduced in 2019, this policy aims to curtail illegal immigration.
In response, the Mexican government, under the leadership of President Claudia Sheinbaum, has declared plans to repatriate migrants stranded within its borders due to the newly imposed immigration restrictions.
Understanding Mexico's Role in U.S. Immigration Policies
Why is Mexico accepting Cuban migrants deported by the U.S.?
Mexico has agreed to accept Cuban migrants deported by the U.S. because these individuals cannot be directly returned to Cuba. This is part of broader agreements between the two countries to manage immigration flows.
What are the implications of the "Remain in Mexico" program?
The "Remain in Mexico" program requires asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their cases are reviewed in the United States. This policy is intended to reduce irregular migration but also raises humanitarian concerns for those stranded in Mexico.