Washington, DC – As the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump prepares to implement an aggressive strategy towards Latin America, sources close to the transition have revealed that this approach will be crucial in the plans to carry out large-scale deportations of migrants.
In his first term, Trump adopted a tough stance towards the region, employing various measures like sanctions, tariffs, and threats as part of efforts to address the issue of migration to the United States. Now, as his second term approaches, the region remains central to the administration’s strategies to reduce migration flows and repatriate undocumented individuals residing in the US.
Sources familiar with the transition discussions have indicated that the new strategy will involve a forceful engagement approach that seeks to leverage allies while also considering potential consequences for countries that do not cooperate. This return to a hardline approach aims to compel countries to comply with deportations and help mitigate migration challenges faced by the US.
Mexico is expected to play a significant role in controlling migration to the US, with plans to reinstate agreements that restrict migrants from seeking asylum in the US if they pass through certain countries. Additionally, cooperation with Panama to prevent migrant flows through the Darien Gap is also a key component of the strategy.
Efforts to gain support from regional partners will be essential in the success of these initiatives. The administration believes that by understanding the motivations and pressure points of different countries, they can effectively secure cooperation in managing deportations and migration.
Changing demographics and worsening conditions in the Western Hemisphere have contributed to record migration, particularly from countries like Venezuela. While some countries have briefly accepted deportation flights, ongoing challenges persist in ensuring compliance with repatriation efforts.
The Biden administration has made progress in certain areas, such as facilitating repatriation flights to China. However, regional governments are bracing for the potentially fierce and disruptive approach that the Trump administration is expected to take towards migration and deportation issues.
As plans are finalized for the return of programs like “remain in Mexico” and negotiations to re-implement Asylum Cooperative Agreements, challenges remain in securing commitments from countries like Guatemala and Honduras. The complexity of addressing migration issues in the region underscores the importance of strategic negotiations and international cooperation to effectively manage deportations and asylum claims.
In the face of these evolving policies and initiatives, experts caution that the US may encounter obstacles as it seeks to navigate complex migration dynamics in the region. Balancing diplomatic relationships, legal frameworks, and humanitarian considerations will be crucial for the administration as it seeks to address the multifaceted challenges posed by migration and deportation issues in Latin America.