Mexico becomes dangerous waiting room as migrants face tough choices before Trump era
Thousands of migrants stuck in Mexico await US border appointments while facing serious safety risks. With Trumpʼs presidency approaching many consider returning home despite the harsh conditions they originally fled from
In southern Mexico Nidia Montenegro checks her phone constantly hoping to get that important US border appointment. The 52-year old Venezuelan knows time isnt on her side with president-elect Trump coming to office next month; his plans might end the app-based system she relies on
The situation leaves many migrants with hard choices — cross illegally stay in Mexico or go back home. “I am traumatized if I dont get the appointment I will go back“ says Montenegro who cant afford the return trip yet. Her fear comes from real danger: she and her nephews survived a kidnapping just 2 months ago (along with other migrants including kids)
Life in Mexican shelters brings constant worry about local crime groups. The country sees roughly 30k murders each year; more than 100k people are missing. Migrants face extra risks:
- getting robbed
- forced into crime
- physical abuse
- human trafficking
- sexual violence
I cry every day and ask God to take me back‚ I dont want to be here anymore... this is horrible
A Venezuelan official notes that about 50-100 people ask for help returning home weekly. The International Organization for Migration has helped thousands go back over the past 7 years — mostly Central Americans who faced violence in Mexico
Some still plan to continue north despite the risks. “If its not by appointment theres always a way“ says Johana a Venezuelan preparing to enter Mexico from Guatemala this week
