The deportation of nearly 2,300 Mexicans to Guatemala and dozens more to Honduras by the United States this year marks a significant change from the previous policy during President Donald Trump’s second term. In the past, only a few Mexicans were expelled to countries other than Mexico due to adherence to non-refoulement principles in both U.S. immigration law and international agreements. Non-refoulement involves not sending migrants back to countries where their rights, safety, or freedom could be at risk based on race, religion, or nationality.
Mexico’s National Migration Institute (INM) confirmed that Mexicans have been deported to Guatemala and Honduras by the Trump administration since April, with subsequent transport to southern Mexico. The Mexican Foreign Ministry opposed this practice, emphasizing the rights of Mexican citizens to enter the U.S.
Tensions have arisen between Mexico and the U.S. over the flow of migrants across their border. The Mexican government has protested against the deaths of 17 Mexicans in U.S. immigration custody during the current administration. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security defended the deportations, citing the implementation of deportation measures promised by President Trump.
Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo disclosed that 2,284 deported Mexicans arrived in Guatemala this year before being transferred to Mexico under an agreement with the Mexican government. Similarly, official documents show that 82 Mexicans were deported to Honduras in August, with additional arrivals later in the year. Deportation watchdog groups reported that 165 Mexicans were sent to Honduras between May and mid-July.
Immigration lawyers suggest that deportations to third countries serve as a legal workaround to pressure asylum seekers to return to Mexico. Strategic agreements with various countries, including African nations like Liberia, have expanded the scope of U.S. deportation policies. Liberia recently accepted 20 deportees from the U.S., signaling broader enforcement measures.
Deportees from Liberia and other regions can seek asylum in the country, according to Liberian officials. The U.S. State Department reaffirmed its commitment to curbing illegal immigration and enhancing border security.