Enhancing the State Department’s Humanitarian Aid and Multilateral Policies Addressing Migration in Mexico

This paper seeks to understand the humanitarian aid sent to Mexico and multilateral policies of the Department of State and propose changes to federal policymakers for migration reform that is consistent, humanitarian and effective. Mexico is undeniably the United States’ principal partner on migration and is currently our biggest trade partner. As migration reaches record levels in the United States and throughout Latin America, policymakers must consider new solutions and fortify partnerships that respond to the internationally recognized rights of migrants and asylum seekers while maximizing each nation’s own well-being. Beginning the body of the paper will be a review of the current Department of State funding and policies in place alongside a rationale for why policymakers must consider a new approach. Following a review of current policy, the pros and cons of three alternatives — increased funding to UNHCR and IOM, a reinvigorated public diplomacy campaign with Mexico, and expanding the USAID-AMEXCID partnership — will be offered in a framework that considers critical socioeconomic, political and security factors for both nations. Policymakers should take on a proactive approach and further develop the strong inter-agency partnerships with Mexican officials and agencies as the most effective solution for the United States to refine its border externalization policies. A step-by-step implementation plan will conclude the paper, outlining how the Department of State and its various branches can constructively use their resources while working with allies to address all elements of migration that prioritizes the legal rights and basic necessities of migrant individuals and families.

Authors

• Justin Dynia, Master of Arts candidate in Latin American Studies, Boston University Pardee School of Global Studies (Presenter)