On Sunday, a group of approximately 2,000 migrants embarked on a journey from Mexico's southern border with hopes of reaching the northern regions of the country and eventually the United States. This movement comes at a crucial time, just weeks before the upcoming U.S. presidential election, where immigration remains a significant focal point.
One of the key concerns among migrants, such as Venezuelan Joel Zambrano, is the potential impact of a new U.S. administration on the asylum process. Zambrano expressed fears that changes in policies could lead to the closure of the CBP One online appointment system, which has been instrumental in aiding migrants seeking asylum.
The decision to leave Mexico's southern border is further fueled by a combination of factors, including a lack of employment opportunities in the region due to an influx of newcomers and delays in asylum appointments in the U.S. These challenges have prompted multiple groups of migrants to depart the area over the past month.
Honduran migrant Roberto Domínguez, aged 48, highlighted the dire situation in his home country and the obstacles faced at the border. He emphasized the lengthy process of obtaining necessary documents, which restrict migrants to the city of Tapachula without the ability to travel further.
This recent departure marks the third and largest group to leave since the inauguration of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who has maintained the immigration policies established by her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador. Earlier in October, groups of 800 and 600 migrants also set out from the region.
Activist Luis García Villagrán estimates that approximately 40,000 migrants are currently stranded in southern Mexico, underscoring the challenges faced by individuals seeking better prospects beyond the region.
For more updates on global migration issues, visit AP’s global migration coverage.
