Migrants Cuban migrants stranded at the southern Mexican border reported serious irregularities and obstacles in the asylum application process before the Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance (COMAR), claiming that without financial resources, the process becomes virtually inaccessible.
Among the main complaints voiced by Cubans to Diario del Sur is the lack of transparency in the rejection of applications, even after several formal submissions.
Some claim to have received up to three rejections without a clear explanation, which has generated frustration, uncertainty, and distrust toward the system.
“The lawyers are charging between 30,000 and 40,000 pesos. I don’t have those resources. It’s a right that Mexico provides us, and I don’t understand what is happening,” stated Alexander Barrera, a Cuban migrant who has been in Tapachula for over a year and a half waiting for a resolution that will allow him to legalize his status, work, and settle down with his family.
According to the collected testimonies, those who can afford legal counsel progress faster in their processes, while the migrants without resources remain stuck, even when they meet the legal requirements. This situation has led to perceptions of inequality in access to asylum.
Another Cuban migrant, identified as Manuel, recounted that he had to pay 500 dollars per person (36 thousand pesos for four members of his family) to receive the confirmation email necessary to proceed in the process, as he never received a direct response from COMAR.
"It is supposed to be a free procedure, but in the end, it doesn't happen as the authorities say," he lamented.
Human rights organizations have previously warned about the bureaucracy and the slow pace of migration processes in Tapachula, and these reports amplify concerns regarding the lack of equitable access to international protection.
Meanwhile, hundreds of migrants continue to live in , unable to work formally and with little hope of progressing in their applications unless they resort to paying for private legal advice.
Cubans are opting for the "Mexican dream" due to the tightening of immigration policies in the United States under the Trump administration.
Mexico has become an attractive destination for these migrants, as it offers the possibility to settle, work, and receive government assistance, in contrast to the increasingly significant obstacles to reaching the United States.
The cancellation of the CBP One program has left many Cuban migrants without a clear pathway to legally enter the United States.
This has led many to consider staying in Mexico as a viable alternative, as they face difficulties in moving north and fears of being deported or getting trapped in precarious conditions along the way.
Cuban migrants face economic and social challenges in Mexico, such as the high cost of living and low wages, especially in places like Tapachula. Furthermore, asylum offices are overwhelmed, leading to long waits and uncertain processes for obtaining refuge. Despite these challenges, many Cubans prefer to settle in Mexico due to the difficulties of reaching the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Challenges Faced by Cuban Migrants in Mexico
Why do Cuban migrants face difficulties in obtaining asylum in Mexico?
Cuban migrants face difficulties obtaining asylum in Mexico due to a lack of transparency and irregularities in the application processes. Many report that their requests are denied without clear explanations, leading to distrust in the system. Furthermore, the lack of financial resources to pay for legal advice exacerbates the situation, as those who can afford it progress more quickly in the procedures.
What is the cost of legal advice for Cuban migrants in Mexico?
The cost of legal advice for Cuban migrants in Mexico can range from 30,000 to 40,000 pesos. This high cost poses a significant barrier for many migrants who cannot afford to pay for these services, contributing to inequality in access to asylum.
What impact does the tightening of U.S. immigration policies have on Cuban migrants?
The tightening of U.S. immigration policies has led many Cuban migrants to consider staying in Mexico as a viable alternative. With the cancellation of the CBP One program and the increase in restrictions to enter the U.S., Mexico has become an attractive destination to settle, work, and receive government assistance.
How does the economic situation in Tapachula affect Cuban migrants?
The economic situation in Tapachula affects Cuban migrants due to the high cost of living and low wages. Many migrants are forced to work in informal and poorly paid jobs while waiting for the resolution of their asylum applications, making it difficult to improve their quality of life.
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