In the first weeks of January, several countries in the region announced support programs to receive their citizens deported from the United States, according to a report by Deutsche Welle. Some of these initiatives are highlighted, in summary:
Mexico: The government of Claudia Sheinbaum launched the "Mexico te abraza" program, which provides support to citizens deported from the U.S. Migrants receive a "Paisano Assistance Card" with a financial bonus to cover travel expenses and access to the National Institute of Social Security. In addition, experts suggest the creation of a permanent coordinating council to ensure more inclusive public policies.
Honduras: President Xiomara Castro announced the "Programa hermano y hermana vuelve a casa," which aims to reintegrate deportees through training, jobs, and financial incentives. The Honduran government proposes an orderly and dignified return, including financing private flights for its citizens.
Responses from other Latin American countries:
El Salvador already has the "El Salvador es tu casa" program, but the nation can also play a role in welcoming deportees of other nationalities.
Colombia has launched a productive credit plan to support migrants, as well as care protocols for deported minors.
Peru is developing measures for the social and labor reintegration of its returned citizens, including medical care.
Ecuador has not yet presented a structured program but is coordinating actions with several ministries to assist deportees.
Guatemala has strengthened its "Return to Hogar" program, which seeks to ensure support for the social and economic reintegration of deportees.
On regional perspectives and future challenges,
experts advocate a joint approach by Central American countries to deal with
deportations and negotiate better terms with the U.S. The lack of a coordinated
strategy in the past has generated contradictions and weakened the region's
position in negotiations with Washington. There is a call for central and local
governments to work together on the reception and reintegration of deported
migrants.