Migrant shelters situated along Mexico's northern border have experienced a significant drop in occupancy, with many now empty, as fewer migrants attempt to cross into the United States. This shift is attributed to the immigration policies enacted following President Donald Trump's return to office, which have included a crackdown and a campaign of mass deportations.
One of the primary legal avenues for migrants seeking entry into the U.S. has been abruptly curtailed. The CBP One app, which facilitated asylum seeker appointments at ports of entry, is no longer operational. This change has left thousands of migrants stranded in border cities such as Ciudad Juarez. In response to the anticipated influx of deportees from the U.S., Mexican authorities had previously prepared by opening emergency shelters.
The reduction in migrant arrivals suggests a direct impact of the tightened U.S. border policies. The closure of the CBP One app, a critical tool for managing the flow of asylum seekers, appears to have significantly altered migration patterns, leading to fewer individuals reaching the U.S. southern border and, consequently, a decrease in the number of people utilizing shelters in Mexican border towns.