In southern Mexico, a new caravan of about 1,500 migrants has formed, with the majority hailing from Central and South America. These migrants are embarking on this journey with the hope of reaching the U.S. border, some expressing a desire to arrive before the upcoming inauguration in January. The caravan commenced its journey from Tapachula, near the Guatemala border, where numerous migrants are currently stranded due to lack of permission to proceed further into Mexico.
Migrant caravans, which first emerged in 2018, serve as a last resort for impoverished migrants who cannot afford smugglers. Traveling in larger groups provides a level of safety, making it challenging for authorities to detain them. However, these caravans face threats from drug cartels in Mexico, who engage in trafficking and often extort or abduct migrants. The arduous journey, spanning over 1,100 miles to the nearest border crossing, presents significant obstacles such as extreme heat, dehydration, and the risk of exploitation by criminal organizations.
Despite efforts to deter caravan formation, migrants are driven by desperation to seek better opportunities elsewhere. The U.S. government has expanded online appointment systems for asylum seekers in southern Mexico, aiming to streamline the process and discourage mass gatherings at the border. While some migrants hope to secure appointments before potential policy changes, others remain determined to reach the border swiftly to avoid missing out.
Previous caravans have encountered challenges in securing transportation, with authorities discouraging vehicles from picking up migrants. In some instances, Mexican officials have provided temporary transit permits to disband the caravans. The evolving dynamics of migrant caravans underscore the complex realities faced by individuals seeking refuge and opportunities beyond their home countries.
