In response to migrant deaths in Oaxaca, Mexico will provide escorted bus rides to the U.S. border for asylum seekers. This service is designed specifically for non-Mexican migrants who have obtained an asylum appointment with U.S. authorities. In the unfortunate incident, which occurred on Thursday 29th, August, seventeen others were injured after a vehicle rammed into them.
Escorted Bus Rides for Southern Mexico Migrants
The National Immigration Institute (INM) will operate bus services from the southern cities of Villahermosa (Tabasco) and Tapachula (Chiapas) to the U.S. border. This initiative aims to assist migrants who have successfully scheduled an asylum consultation with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) using the CBP One app.
Expansion of CBP One App to Southern Mexico
The United States government recently broadened access to its CBP One app to include southern Mexico. This expansion happened on August 23. In the past, access to this app was limited to central and northern Mexico only, compelling migrants to travel long distances, usually on foot, to obtain an asylum appointment.
Addressing Migrant Safety Concerns
The Mexican government hopes the new bus service will discourage migrants from embarking on the dangerous northward journey by foot. After the recent deaths of three migrants, activists called for increased protection for travelers in migrant caravans. The bus service, along with expanded access to the CBP One app, is part of Mexico’s effort to provide safer options for migrants.
Challenges in Southern Mexico – Northbound Rides for Migrants
Expanded app access lets migrants schedule asylum appointments near their entry point, but challenges remain. Lack of jobs, poor housing in southern Mexico may force migrants north despite risks. Migrants fear the dangers of waiting at the U.S. border, where criminal cartels prey on vulnerable individuals.
Security and Support During Transit
To ensure the safety of migrants during their journey, local, state, and federal law enforcement will provide security along the bus routes. The organization will offer meals during the journey, and each migrant will receive a 20-day transit permit that grants them temporary legal status in Mexico while they travel.
Local Concerns and Response in Oaxaca |Northbound Rides for Migrants
The Northbound Rides for Migrants initiative launches as towns in Oaxaca report rising robberies linked to passing migrants. In response, Oaxaca state officials are considering measures to tackle the crime, including a possible ban on migrants in specific areas.
This bus service represents Mexico’s latest effort to deal with the difficult challenges of migration while balancing safety concerns for both migrants and local communities.
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