In response to anticipated mass deportations under U.S. immigration policies, Mexico is constructing shelters for deported nationals along its border.
Border Shelters Take Shape Across Mexico
Construction began on January 21 for large temporary shelters in Juárez, just across the Rio Grande from El Paso. By January 23, several shelters were nearly complete, with similar projects underway in eight other border cities.
This effort is part of the “Mexico Embraces You” initiative, launched by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo on January 20. These shelters aim to provide deported Mexican nationals with temporary housing, food, medical care, and assistance in job placement. The facilities will also include utilities like potable water, waste management, and electricity. Additionally, 189 buses will transport deportees back to their hometowns.
According to Enrique Serrano, head of Chihuahua’s State Population Council, the shelters are exclusively for Mexican citizens. Non-Mexican migrants will receive assistance from Mexico’s National Institute of Migration.
Revival of “Remain in Mexico” Policy and Support for Migrants
The Trump administration has reactivated the Migration Protection Protocols (MPP), known as “Remain in Mexico.” This policy requires non-Mexican asylum seekers to stay in Mexico while their cases proceed in the U.S. President Sheinbaum Pardo has signaled her willingness to approve this policy, but final decisions remain pending.
Although the new shelters will not serve non-Mexican migrants, three federal shelters in Juárez continue providing humanitarian aid. Sheinbaum Pardo emphasized the government’s commitment to aiding all migrants, citing the harsh winter temperatures in Chihuahua as an urgent concern. She reaffirmed that Mexico would help migrants return to their home countries if needed.
Border Crossings Drop as Mexico Tightens Controls
The El Paso Sector has recorded a 63% decrease in migrant encounters, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This drop is attributed to Mexico’s stricter border policies near Guatemala, which limit migrant movements toward the U.S.
Through its proactive measures, Mexico is preparing for the challenges posed by shifting U.S. immigration policies. By balancing humanitarian aid with logistical planning, the country aims to address the needs of deported nationals while managing broader migration challenges along the border.
