
Responding to anticipated U.S. immigration policy changes, Mexico is taking a strategic approach by establishing a tent city at its border to manage incoming deportees effectively.
At a Glance
- Mexico sets up migrant attention centers along the border for anticipated U.S. deportations.
- The Juarez tent city offers essential amenities, including medical care and temporary lodging.
- Mexico increases military presence to ensure security and aid reintegration of deportees.
- Mexico’s contingency plan, “Mexico te Abraza,” supports Mexican nationals affected by U.S. policy shifts.
Mexico’s Proactive Border Management
Mexico is preparing for mass deportations in response to U.S. immigration policy changes. Establishing migrant attention centers along the border reflects a strategic approach to manage displaced populations. The first of these centers, located in Juarez, features a large tent complex designed to handle the influx of returnees.
Juarez’s facility offers food, medical checkups, temporary lodging, and a $98 debit card to assist Mexicans in returning to their home states. Similar centers are planned for several other border cities, aiming to comprehensively address challenges arising from the recent policy shifts.
Mexico setting up tents for migrants deported by Trump https://t.co/eiYJThCnKh
— WKBN 27 First News (@WKBN) January 22, 2025
Security Measures and Humanitarian Aid
In addition to providing essential services, Mexico is ramping up its military presence at the border to maintain security and facilitate the reintegration of deportees. President Claudia Sheinbaum’s announcement of the “Mexico te Abraza” plan underscores Mexico’s commitment to supporting its nationals affected by changing U.S. policies.
“First, the Mexican people should be certain we will always defend our sovereignty and independence. Second, we will always support Mexicans in the United States, our paisanos” – President Claudia Sheinbaum.
The centers respond directly to executive orders intended to deport unauthorized migrants and reinstate the Remain in Mexico policy. Although Mexico has not agreed to the latter, it remains prepared to support stranded third-country migrants as a humanitarian gesture. Additionally, 189 buses will facilitate the transportation of deported migrants to other regions within Mexico.
Continued Diplomatic Efforts and Consular Support
Mexico’s Foreign Minister, Juan Ramon de la Fuente, assured that Mexico is equipped to handle increased deportations given the current low northward migration flows. The country remains committed to providing legal advice and immigration referrals through its 53 consulates across the United States, ensuring ongoing diplomatic support for Mexican nationals abroad.
“We are at the lowest crossing levels – 78 percent less (than last January) – and this means the conditions prevalent on our border don’t represent unmanageable levels” – Foreign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente.
Recent deportations at the Paso del Norte port of entry reported that deported individuals were Mexican nationals.