Mexican authorities in Ciudad Juarez have started building large tent shelters in anticipation of a potential surge in deportations under President Trump's proposed mass deportation plan. Enrique Licon, a municipal official, stated that these temporary shelters will have the capacity to accommodate thousands and should be operational within days.
The tent shelters are part of the Mexican government's initiative to establish shelters and reception centers in nine northern cities. Authorities at these sites will offer deported individuals food, temporary housing, medical attention, and help with obtaining identification documents as outlined in the government's strategy named "Mexico embraces you."
With nearly 5 million unauthorized Mexicans residing in the United States, concerns have arisen regarding the feasibility of managing mass deportations and the potential strain on Mexican border cities. The Mexican government asserts readiness for such scenarios, yet immigration advocates express apprehension about the possible saturation of Mexican border cities due to Trump’s immigration policies.
Despite Mexico’s assurance of providing necessary support to repatriated individuals, challenges lie ahead, especially considering potential adverse economic impacts and the strain on resources. Wayne Cornelius, a professor at the University of California-San Diego, warns that Mexico may face economic disruptions if it struggles to absorb deported individuals and encounters a decline in remittances.
In Ciudad Juarez, soldiers are already setting up facilities in the tent shelters to accommodate the needs of the incoming deportees, underscoring the seriousness of the situation and the preparations underway.