In a testimony to Mexican senators, Mexico’s Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena revealed that more migrants entered Mexico last month. The increase was led by a significant influx of migrants from Venezuela, as well as notable numbers from Guatemala and Honduras. Barcena reported that in September alone, 60,000 Venezuelan migrants, 35,000 Guatemalan migrants, and 27,000 Honduran migrants arrived in Mexico. These figures come just ahead of a migration summit scheduled for Sunday, in which regional leaders will discuss the growing migration towards the United States from Latin America.
Among the attendees of the summit are Colombia’s Gustavo Petro and Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro. The rise in migration can be attributed to the U.S. authorities’ authorization of more legal pathways to enter the country back in May. This caused a significant drop in the number of migrants crossing Mexican territory. However, in recent weeks, the numbers have once again surged.
Barcena further disclosed that around 1.13 million migrants have reached Mexico’s southern border with Guatemala so far this year. Additionally, 1.75 million individuals have reached the U.S.-Mexico border. In terms of migrant children, Barcena stated that approximately 63,000 have arrived in Mexico since August. Out of these, about 7% were unaccompanied, while nearly three-quarters were 11 years old or younger.
It is important to note that the data provided is subject to change as the situation continues to evolve. The migration summit on Sunday aims to address the challenges and possible solutions related to the rising migration in the region. With various leaders confirming their attendance, it is hoped that collaborative efforts can be made to address this complex issue.
