Venezuelan migrants often consider Mexico to be the most challenging part of their journey to reach the U.S. border. Mexico has implemented a strategy to keep migrants closer to its southern border, giving temporary relief to U.S. authorities. Efforts include deportations, offering financial incentives to discourage return, and implementing checkpoints. Mexico’s crackdown on immigration has hit Venezuelans hard, showcasing the U.S. reliance on Mexico to control migration as it remains a top issue for voters.
Arrests of migrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border have decreased this year, especially among Venezuelans. Large numbers of Venezuelans began reaching the U.S. in 2021 after flying to Mexico and crossing overland. Mexico has taken steps such as forcing migrants from trains, flying and busing them to the south, and offering financial incentives. Last week, Mexico announced cash incentives for Venezuelans they deport in hopes of discouraging them from returning.
Migrants find themselves dealing with corrupt officials at Mexico’s government checkpoints, where they must pay to avoid being sent back south. This, along with the challenges of gangs and cartels, makes the journey through Mexico perilous. The U.S. allows migrants entry through the CBP One app, which requires an appointment made from central or northern Mexico. Many Venezuelan migrants are waiting in Mexico City for their turn to cross into the U.S., fearful of the dangers that lie ahead.
Despite the challenges, Venezuelans continue to come north, driven by the dire situation in their home country. The political turmoil and economic collapse in Venezuela have pushed over 7 million people to flee. Mexican authorities have seen a significant increase in stops of Venezuelan migrants, indicating a continuous flow of people fleeing the country. The journey through Mexico remains a treacherous one, with individuals facing the risk of being robbed by officials and gangs.
The reduction in border arrests in Texas, where the majority of Border Patrol arrests of Venezuelans occur, has been credited to Mexico by U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. However, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has also touted his efforts to reduce illegal crossings, including installing barriers and increasing security. Despite the challenges, some Venezuelan migrants do manage to enter the U.S. legally through humanitarian grounds, while others are prepared to cross illegally despite the risks.
Overall, the journey for Venezuelan migrants through Mexico remains one of the most difficult parts of their quest to reach the U.S. border. Mexico’s efforts to control immigration have hit Venezuelans hard, forcing them to navigate corrupt officials, gangs, and dangerous conditions. Despite the perilous journey, many Venezuelans continue to make their way north in search of a better life, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by those fleeing Venezuela’s political and economic crisis.
