In a significant shift, Mexico has agreed to receive non-Mexican migrants deported from the United States. This decision marks a change from Mexico’s initial stance, where it was reluctant to accept deportees from other countries. President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that Mexico would collaborate with the US to receive non-Mexican deportees through various mechanisms.
Sheinbaum emphasized that Mexico is not in favor of receiving non-Mexican deportees but has a plan in place to receive them properly. This decision comes as President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to begin massive deportations. Critics argue that there will be logistical challenges to significantly ramping up deportations, which could lead to a surge in migrants arriving in Mexico.
The deportations are likely to have a significant impact on northern Mexico’s border cities, which already struggle with high levels of organized crime. Non-Mexican migrants would be vulnerable to kidnapping and extortion in these areas. Mexico has agreed to receive non-Mexican migrants in the past, particularly from countries like Cuba and Venezuela.
However, Mexico temporarily stopped deportations in December 2023 due to a lack of funds, and deportations were substantially reduced in 2024 compared to previous years. The decision to receive non-Mexican deportees has raised concerns about the potential strain on Mexico’s resources and infrastructure.
As the US prepares to implement its deportation plans, Mexico is bracing itself for the potential influx of migrants. The Mexican government has assured that it will provide adequate support and resources to receive the deportees, but the long-term implications of this decision remain uncertain.
