During a joint news conference in Guatemala City, US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas expressed strong opposition to a Texas law that allows state authorities to arrest and deport migrants who have entered the country illegally. Mayorkas stated that the law, known as SB4, is considered unconstitutional by the US government, and they are hopeful that the courts will rule against it definitively.
The Texas law, passed last year, grants the state the power to detain and deport individuals who have entered the US unlawfully. The US Justice Department has challenged the law, arguing that it infringes on federal authority. A recent hearing at the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals did not result in a ruling, leaving the law temporarily suspended.
Mayorkas expressed concerns about the potential chaos and negative impact that SB4 could have on border migration if allowed to proceed. He emphasized the importance of establishing lawful and safe pathways for individuals seeking protection from persecution, while also ensuring the orderly return of those who do not utilize these legal channels.
As part of the US-led regional strategy on immigration, efforts are being made to facilitate the asylum process through safe mobility offices in various countries. These offices aim to enable migrants to initiate asylum requests locally, avoiding the hazardous journey to the US border.
Mayorkas' delegation requested Guatemala to expand the scope of its safe mobility office to process asylum requests from migrants of other nationalities, in addition to Guatemalans. The US government has been working to enhance collaboration with countries along the migrant route, including Guatemala, Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador.
While discussing the immigration issue, Mayorkas did not directly address the possibility of Guatemala signing a safe third country agreement, which would require migrants passing through Guatemala to seek protection there rather than at the US border. He acknowledged that cooperation has been more challenging with Nicaragua and Venezuela due to strained relations.
President Arévalo highlighted the regional nature of the immigration phenomenon and emphasized the need for collaborative efforts among countries to address it effectively. Mayorkas expressed solidarity with Arévalo in his fight against corruption and for democracy in Guatemala.
The US government continues to support efforts to combat corruption and promote democracy in Guatemala and beyond, standing with President Arévalo in his endeavors.
