Mexican authorities are scrambling to build migrant tent cities as part of a response to Donald Trump’s mass deportation plans.
According to a Reuters report, the shelters currently under construction should be finished within days and will be able to house thousands of individuals deported from the United States.
Mexico is scrambling to build migrant tent cities as part of an “unprecedented” response in anticipation of Trump’s mass deportations. pic.twitter.com/TDXBNtsPi3
— Ben Kew (@ben_kew) January 24, 2025
Municipal official Enrique described the efforts as “unprecedented.”
In a news release posted on the official Mexican government website, authorities outlined their plans in full detail:
During President Claudia Sheinbaum’s People’s Conference at the National Palace, Secretary of the Interior Rosa Icela Rodríguez assured that the federal government is ready to warmly welcome Mexican nationals with humanity, dignity, and opportunities for a decent life in their home country.
She outlined the three components of the Effective Reception Strategy, MEXICO WELCOMES YOU:
– Consular assistance and protection, with the support of United Nations agencies and organisations to guarantee the rights of returning nationals.
– Reception and support in the six border states, where attention centres will be established.
– Reintegration, addressing basic needs through social service campaigns, as well as inclusion in employment opportunities and welfare programmes.
She detailed that the attention centres will be located in municipalities adjacent to the 11 points through which Mexican nationals return. These centres will provide essential services such as electricity, water, internet, sewage, and communication infrastructure.
Within days of taking office, Trump’s deportation plan is well underway.
Deportation flights have begun.
President Trump is sending a strong and clear message to the entire world: if you illegally enter the United States of America, you will face severe consequences. pic.twitter.com/CTlG8MRcY1
— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) January 24, 2025
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is currently focusing on removing criminals, although eventually, plans to deport everyone living and working in the country illegally.
However, there are growing concerns that the country may not be ready for the full impact of thousands or even millions of arrivals within the coming months.
At a press conference this week, Interior Minister Rosa Icela Rodriguez said that the government “will do everything necessary to care for its compatriots, and will allocate whatever is necessary to receive those who are repatriated.”
“We reaffirm our identity as a people who not only welcome but also protect and respect the rights and dignity of those who return,” she stated.
