Question

After reading the following quote, what can you infer about the role of Mexico in the emigration process? Central America has been a locus of migration for generations. It is characterized by rural-to-urban and regional migration as well as emigration abroad, particularly to the United States. A relative unknown in hemispheric migration matters until recent decades, Central America transformed from a minor to a major player during a decade of armed conflicts in the 1980s. In this period the region also became a geographic bridge to North America for migrants from South America seeking to enter the United States, while Mexico has become the main transit country for Central Americans headed north. In short, Central America is a crossroads of many migratory streams.

Answer 1

As the quote mentions, not only is Mexico the place of origin of many immigrants but is also the last transitory spot in the way for many immigrants coming from many countries in Latin America. Mexico is in current negotiations with the United States to adopt a more strict role preventing immigrants from entering their borders, crossing them and finally arriving in the States. The proposal currently being discussed is the "safe third country agreement", which would require people transiting Mexico to apply for protection in this country rather than in the United States. This would enable U.S. border guards to quickly reboot asylum seekers back to Mexico. Making the process of dealing with illegal immigrants more efficient.

Answer 2

The countries of Central America and Latin America are still underdeveloped, with late industrialization, including Mexico and Brazil. This phenomenon has caused the population of these countries to migrate internally from the countryside to the city in search of jobs and better living conditions.

In particular, Mexico is a middle-income, populous country with structural problems such as violence, drug trafficking and systemic corruption. It is a neighboring country that has a large border with the United States. The American way of life makes many people in subaltern conditions want to emigrate to the United States. Therefore, the country has a strong migration policy. To enter the US, citizens of other countries must meet various requirements.

However, the entry of Latino citizens and central countries into Mexico is facilitated. In this way, the country has become a clandestine route of entry for migrants from these countries, including Mexicans, in the United States. This problem is exacerbated because Mexico has become the main route for drug entry into the United States. This has been a challenge for the American and Mexican authorities, to the point where President Trump promises to build a wall between the two countries.