According to a report by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), over 21,000 vulnerable migrants entered Honduras from January to July 2025, with the majority being Cuban. Data released by the EFE agency indicates that during this period, 21,617 migrants arrived in Honduran territory, with a staggering 83% being Cuban nationals.
The remaining migrants were made up of Ecuadorians (5%), Chinese (3%), and individuals from other nationalities (9%). The migration patterns were varied, with 53.8% heading north to south and 46.2% moving from south to north. Notably, over half of these migrants (54%) traveled alone, predominantly young men aged 18 to 35.
Key Motives and Challenges
The primary reasons for embarking on this journey remain the search for employment and improved living conditions (55.7%), as well as family reunification (32%). Other motivations include returning to their place of origin, targeted persecution or violence, and, to a lesser extent, asylum requests.
The report also highlighted that 29% of migrants reported experiencing discrimination, mainly due to their nationality, while 15% said they were detained by non-state actors during their journey.
Regional Dynamics and Repatriation Efforts
Simultaneously, the IOM noted that 18,291 migrants, mostly Venezuelans, returned to South America during the same timeframe, and 20,362 Hondurans were repatriated, primarily from the United States (73%) and Mexico (23%).
Ismael Cruceta, head of the IOM's Program Support Unit in Honduras, emphasized the need for increased international cooperation. "Providing humanitarian assistance to all individuals, regardless of their migration status, is crucial because human rights are universal, and everyone deserves basic and dignified living conditions," he stated.
Ongoing Migration Patterns and Regional Policies
The latest IOM report confirmed that Cubans are at the forefront of the migration flow through Honduras to the United States. Despite a reported decline in migrant numbers at the beginning of the year, the so-called "Cuban route" never halted and saw a resurgence over the summer. In January, it was already noted that 60,000 Cubans had crossed through Honduras on their journey northward.
This migration trend is also evident in Guatemala, where authorities intercepted 88 migrants, including Cuban citizens, highlighting the perils of the journey. Meanwhile, regional governments have tightened requirements. Recently, Panama extended its transit visa requirement for Cubans, further complicating the prospects of those seeking to reach the United States through irregular means.
Migrant Flow and Challenges in Honduras
Why are Cuban migrants leading the flow through Honduras?
Cuban migrants are primarily seeking better job opportunities and living conditions, as well as family reunification, driving their numbers to lead the migration flow through Honduras.
What challenges do migrants face on their journey?
Migrants often encounter discrimination based on nationality and the risk of detention by non-state actors, alongside the physical and logistical challenges of the journey itself.
How have regional policies affected migration routes?
Regional governments have increased restrictions, like Panama's extended transit visa requirement for Cubans, making it more challenging for migrants to reach their destination through irregular routes.