Cuban migrants stranded at Mexico's southern border have reported significant irregularities and barriers in the asylum application process with the Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance (COMAR). They argue that without financial means, the process becomes nearly inaccessible.
One of the primary grievances expressed by the Cubans to Diario del Sur is the lack of transparency regarding application denials, even after multiple formal submissions. Some have encountered up to three rejections without any clear explanation, leading to feelings of frustration, uncertainty, and mistrust in the system.
"Attorneys are demanding between 30 and 40 thousand pesos. I don't have those funds. It's a right that Mexico grants us, and I can't understand what's happening," stated Alexander Barrera, a Cuban migrant who has been waiting in Tapachula for over a year and a half for a resolution to legalize his status so that he can work and settle with his family.
Testimonies collected indicate that those able to afford legal counsel progress more swiftly through the procedures, whereas migrants without financial resources become stalled, even when they meet legal requirements. This scenario has fostered perceptions of inequality in asylum access.
Another Cuban migrant, known as Manuel, shared that he had to pay 500 dollars per person (36 thousand pesos for four family members) to receive the confirmation email necessary to move forward in the process, as he never received a direct response from COMAR. "It's supposed to be a free process, but in reality, it doesn't unfold as the authorities claim," he lamented.
Human rights organizations have previously highlighted the bureaucracy and sluggish pace of migration processes in Tapachula, and these complaints underscore concerns about the lack of equitable access to international protection.
In the meantime, hundreds of migrants remain in precarious conditions, unable to work formally and with little hope of advancing their applications without resorting to private legal advisory fees.
Cubans are increasingly considering the "Mexican dream" due to the tightening of U.S. immigration policies under the Trump administration. Mexico has emerged as an appealing destination for these migrants, offering opportunities to settle, work, and receive government assistance, in stark contrast to the growing challenges of reaching the United States.
The termination of the CBP One program has left many Cuban migrants without a clear pathway to legally enter the United States. This has prompted many to consider staying in Mexico as a viable alternative, as they face difficulties moving northward and fears of deportation or becoming trapped in precarious conditions during the journey.
Cuban migrants encounter economic and social challenges in Mexico, such as high living costs and low wages, especially in areas like Tapachula. Additionally, asylum offices are overwhelmed, leading to long waits and uncertain processes for obtaining refuge. Despite these hurdles, many Cubans prefer settling in Mexico due to the difficulties of reaching the United States.
Challenges and Solutions for Cuban Migrants in Mexico
What are the main obstacles faced by Cuban migrants seeking asylum in Mexico?
Cubans encounter barriers such as lack of transparency in application processes, high legal fees, and inequitable access to asylum resources, leading to feelings of frustration and uncertainty.
Why are Cuban migrants considering staying in Mexico instead of moving to the U.S.?
Due to stricter U.S. immigration policies and the termination of the CBP One program, many Cubans find Mexico a viable alternative for settlement, work, and governmental support.
How does the legal advice fee impact the asylum process for Cuban migrants?
Legal advice fees, which can be as high as 40 thousand pesos, create a financial barrier that limits access to asylum processes for migrants without resources, leading to a perception of inequality.