Report reveals over 1.74 million migrants sought refuge in Mexico during president’s term
Date
7/16/2024 3:28:47 AM
(MENAFN) More than 1.74 million migrants have sought refuge in Mexico during the presidency of Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, according to the National Migration Institute (INM). On Monday, the immigration authority reported that a total of 1,742,365 foreigners entered Mexico as migrants and were granted legal documents allowing them to remain in the country. Of this number, 513,063 individuals were granted asylum based on humanitarian grounds.
President Lopez Obrador, commonly referred to as AMLO, has committed to addressing the root causes of migration in the region while ensuring humane treatment for those transiting through Mexico. The INM further revealed that during his six years in office, 415,584 humanitarian visas were issued, which provide individuals with the right to transit freely within the country. Additionally, 97,479 permanent residence visas were granted, either through recognition of refugee status or as a protective measure.
The COVID-19 pandemic, along with stringent U.S. immigration policies, has significantly impacted the number of immigration applications in Mexico. One major factor was the now-repealed Title 42, implemented by former President Donald Trump during the pandemic, which allowed for the immediate expulsion of over 2 million migrants back to Mexican territory. This program enabled U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to deny entry to individuals deemed a potential health risk, either due to existing travel restrictions or unlawful entry to evade health screenings.
As a result of pressure from the United States, Mexico has increasingly become a destination for migrants expelled from the U.S. border. While the INM has stated that all immigration processes are conducted with "full respect for the rights of nationals and foreigners," AMLO's administration has faced significant criticism regarding its treatment of migrants. Advocates and humanitarian organizations have raised concerns about the conditions and processes migrants encounter, calling for more compassionate policies and protections.
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