Mexico is taking steps to welcome home its citizens who may be deported from the United States by providing over 12,000 beds in newly prepared shelters. These preparations coincide with the upcoming inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, set for January 20, when his anticipated deportation policy is expected to commence.
The New York Post reported that in response to Trump's proposed crackdown on immigration, Mexico is launching a national effort to support its returning citizens with designated shelters.
The plan, unveiled by Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda, involves the establishment of 25 shelters across Mexico.
These facilities are scheduled to be ready in time for the new U.S. administration's expected policy implementation. Each shelter will have the capacity to accommodate 500 individuals, ensuring that Mexico is prepared to assist its citizens during this transition.
The shelters aim to provide temporary housing for deported Mexicans before they are returned to their hometowns.
Ávila Olmeda emphasized that these shelters are exclusively for Mexican citizens repatriated from the United States after the shift in U.S. immigration policy. "This is a strategic plan to accommodate exclusively people who get deported after Jan. 20," she explained, noting the expected increase in deportations following the inauguration.
Ávila Olmeda further clarified the nature of these accommodations, stressing that no foreigners would be housed in these facilities. The shelters are categorized to cater separately to different groups such as men, women, unaccompanied children, and families. This separation is intended to ensure safety and provide suitable environments for all demographics.
Significant efforts have been made to position the shelters strategically near the U.S.-Mexico border. Of the 25 shelters, five will be located south of San Diego, California, and two more will be situated south of El Centro.
The proximity to these border areas is a calculated move to facilitate the quick return of deported individuals to Mexico, assuring they are welcomed back and their rights respected.
These arrangements are in line with recent comments made by Donald Trump, who mentioned a conversation with Mexico's newly elected President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo. Trump claimed that Sheinbaum agreed to halt migration through Mexico and into the U.S., effectively tightening the southern border. However, Sheinbaum later refuted any claims of border closure.
President Sheinbaum responded to Trump's assertions by indicating Mexico's continued commitment to assisting migrating individuals.
"In our conversation with President Trump, I explained... the strategy that Mexico has followed to address the migration phenomenon, respecting human rights," she said. She emphasized that Mexico's actions are geared toward helping migrants before they reach Mexico's northern border.
By offering this assistance, Mexico aims to fulfill both humanitarian obligations and international commitments to migrant populations. She reiterated that Mexico's approach is not about shutting borders but fostering understanding and collaboration between nations.
As Mexico braces for the potential influx of returning citizens, there is a focus on ensuring their smooth reintegration into Mexican society.
By providing temporary shelter, the government aims to assist citizens in transitioning back to their home environments. Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda acknowledged the potential challenges ahead, recognizing the significant changes that deportees will face upon arrival.
"What we do know, throughout his campaign, he threatened to do this," Ávila Olmeda remarked, referring to Trump's previous vows to enforce stricter immigration policies. These measures are being preemptively taken by Mexico, acknowledging the possibility of a rigorous deportation regime once Trump assumes office.
Overall, the Mexican government's efforts demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding the welfare and rights of its citizens, especially those affected by external immigration policies. By preparing these shelters and laying out plans for the future, Mexico is proactively addressing potential issues that may arise when citizens are returned from the United States.
