The impact of President Donald Trump's immigration policies has transcended the border and is now affecting Mexico, where thousands of people are facing financial problems and shortages, without support from organizations after the Trump administration cut the budget. The suspension of humanitarian aid, including aid directed towards the migration crisis at the border with Mexico, has suddenly complicated the situation for thousands of people, even affecting local trade in Mexican border cities. Job opportunities for migrants have decreased, services are temporary, and shelters now depend on local support.
Donald Trump eliminated humanitarian aid for migrants as part of his policies to contain irregular migration and collect funds that he considers the United States "wastes." This has led to a reduction in humanitarian aid for three months, although the budget denial could be prolonged. Some activists indicate that individuals close to the Trump administration, including Elon Musk, have belittled the efforts of aid programs.
Elon Musk, in his role in the Government Efficiency Department, has been involved in the reduction of budget and personnel for government agencies in the United States since the beginning of the Trump administration. The complete disappearance of agencies is expected in the coming weeks to cut government spending. A UNICEF spokesperson in Mexico expressed the importance of U.S. funding and hopes it will resume soon.
In Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Pastor Francisco González Palacios, who manages a shelter for migrants, has directly experienced the effects of the lack of support. Humanitarian agencies on the north border of Mexico are affected by the lack of funds and resources to assist migrants. Organizations like Kids in Need of Defense and Asylum Access have had to close programs and reduce their operational capacity.
Claudia Sheinbaum's government has implemented social programs to support migrants, without increasing deportations. However, the lack of resources and the uncertainty generated by Trump's policies have complicated the situation for migrants in Mexico. The work of humanitarian organizations is limited by the decrease in funds, directly affecting migrants seeking help at the border. The uncertainty and scarcity of resources jeopardize humanitarian assistance to migrants in Mexico.
