How Does the “Remain in Mexico” Agreement Impact Migrants Seeking Asylum in the United States?

 Posted on July 17, 2019 in Immigration

The topic of immigration has been in the news a lot lately. Just recently, President Trump announced the United States and Mexico agreed on a plan involving South American migrants seeking asylum in the United States. Under the terms of the agreement, these immigrants will wait in Mexico until their hearing dates in U.S. immigration courts. It could take several months or even years for their claims to be adjudicated. During their stay, they will be granted rights and access to jobs, medical care, and education. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the plan is called “Remain in Mexico.” Proponents of the agreement believe it will help with the inflow of migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border, but whether that is true remains to be seen.

Immigration Crisis

Prior to reaching this new agreement, the United States government had threatened to impose tariffs on Mexican goods coming into our country. This was in response to the overwhelming number of immigrants flooding the U.S.-Mexico border. Currently, people seeking asylum at the U.S. border are sometimes sent to detention centers, temporary shelters, or tent cities while they await processing of their claims. A lack of facilities and resources on the Mexican side caused a crisis situation. If there is not enough room, migrants can be released into the United States, where local charities offer help, but those resources also can become strained with the sheer number of people. That is why President Trump urged Mexico to adopt new policies.

Caravans with thousands of immigrants from Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador seek asylum at the U.S. border every month. Previously, President Trump had wanted people fleeing violent conditions in their homeland to seek asylum in the first country they step foot in. Under the new DHS policy, they will not be required to seek asylum in Mexico first.

Some critics of the agreement, however, worry migrants may still be subject to violence or poor living conditions during their time in Mexico. However, thousands of Mexican National Guard units were deployed to the Mexico-Guatemala border for added security. The joint declaration by both governments says the U.S. will "immediately expand the implementation" of the "Remain in Mexico" policy, officially called the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP).

Contact a DuPage County Immigration Attorney

Immigration is a fluid situation these days, with the laws constantly changing. If you or a family member is pursuing asylum in the United States, it is imperative you know your rights. Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices are dedicated to helping you understand the legal process for asylum seekers. Contact a Chicagoland immigration attorney at 630-932-9100 today for a free consultation.