In the midst of uncertainty, thousands of migrants like Nidia Montenegro are caught in a precarious situation as they await appointments with U.S. border officials to seek asylum. The looming shadow of President-elect Donald Trump’s policies threatens to upend their plans, leaving them with an unbearable choice: attempt to cross into the United States illegally, stay in Mexico, or return home.
Montenegro, a 52-year-old Venezuelan migrant, has been using the government app to try and secure her appointment but fears it may not come before Trump takes office on January 20. Her apprehensions are valid, given Trump’s vow to scrap several programs that have allowed migrants like Montenegro to enter the U.S. legally.
For many, including a dozen migrants interviewed by Reuters in Mexico, returning home is their preferred option despite facing ongoing issues such as poverty, lack of employment, insecurity, and political crises. However, this choice is not without its challenges, particularly for those who cannot afford to return.
The violence in Mexico weighs heavily on any decision, making the journey north through the country treacherous. Organized crime has established extensive human trafficking networks across Mexico, putting migrants at risk of extortion, beating, rape, forced criminal activity, and even murder.
Many have fallen prey to these dangers. Montenegro was kidnapped along with two nephews and dozens of others upon arriving in southern Mexico from Guatemala two months ago. Two days later, the group managed to escape.
Mexican government attempts to slow the arrival of migrants at the U.S. border by busing and flying non-Mexican migrants to the country’s south add to the risk. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has assisted several thousand migrants return voluntarily from Mexico to their home countries, including victims of violence, but declined to provide specific figures.
The IOM noted that in the last seven years, it has seen a significant number of Central American migrants seeking voluntary return due to the risks they face while traveling through Mexico. The Venezuelan government has also reported a surge in requests for “voluntary return” from Mexican citizens, particularly those who have been victims of violence or exploitation.
Despite these challenges, many will persist in their journey to the United States, whether joining caravans, paying human traffickers, or clinging to hopes of a U.S. government border appointment.
The uncertain fate of migrants like Montenegro highlights the hard choices that thousands may face after January 20. As they navigate this complex situation, it is essential to provide them with support and protection from violence and exploitation.
Source: Reuters
