Irregular Migration Surges Amid Decrease in Asylum Applications in Mexico

In 2024, Mexico saw a nearly 44% decrease in asylum applications, yet irregular migration soared by 132%, with over 925,000 migrants recorded. Activists highlight the long wait times disrupting the asylum process, leading many to prioritize movement to the U.S. instead. Tapachula remains a critical site of migrant congestion, with insufficient responses from Mexican authorities, despite promises of support for those wishing to remain in Mexico.

In 2024, the number of asylum applications in Mexico dropped significantly to 78,975, reflecting a nearly 44% decline from the previous year’s record of 140,720, as reported by the Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance (COMAR). Amid this context, irregular migration has surged to unprecedented levels, with over 925,000 migrants detected in irregular situations from January to August 2024, indicating a 132% annual increase. This overwhelming influx has left Tapachula, a key city along Mexico’s southern border, overburdened, housing around two-thirds of the country’s migrant population.

COMAR processed only 33,844 of the asylum requests, of which 74% were approved. Activist Hector Martínez Estrada attributed the reduction in asylum applications not to fewer migrants but to lengthy waiting times that discourage individuals from applying. Many are now prioritizing their journey to the United States ahead of anticipated policy changes under the upcoming administration of President Donald Trump. Though the Mexican government has extended offers of support for those wishing to stay, they have not facilitated asylum for those solely aiming to secure travel documents to the United States.

The current migration crisis in Mexico is heavily influenced by regional instability and socioeconomic challenges faced by nations such as Haiti, Honduras, and Venezuela. Irregular migration particularly surged in the wake of changing U.S. immigration regulations and the anticipation of stricter policies under a new presidential administration. The response from Mexican authorities has struggled to keep pace with the rising number of migrants, leading to prolonged waiting periods for asylum determinations and increasing frustration within migrant communities. Tapachula has become a focal point for this crisis, where many migrants find themselves trapped in a cycle of uncertainty, exacerbated by the disproportionate pressure on local infrastructure and services, essential for both migrants and citizens alike.

The report highlights a complex migration scenario in Mexico, marked by a sharp decline in asylum applications alongside an explosive rise in irregular migration. While many migrants are opting to bypass formal asylum processes due to long wait times, the unique pressures at the southern border persist. Activists continue to call for improved responses from the authorities to address the humanitarian needs of those seeking refuge or simply passage to the United States. The overall situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and efficient migration policies that can adapt to the dynamic challenges presented by increasing numbers of displaced individuals.

Original Source: www.haitilibre.com