Mexico is taking steps to house thousands of its citizens expected to be deported from the United States under upcoming policies. The plan includes opening over 12,000 shelter beds nationwide.
According to the New York Post, the shelters aim to accommodate Mexican nationals temporarily before they are sent back to their hometowns, aligning with preparations for President-elect Donald Trump’s deportation initiatives.
Officials have announced that 25 shelters will be established across the country, each with a capacity of 500 people. These facilities will exclusively house Mexican citizens, with separate accommodations for men, women, unaccompanied children, and families. The initiative begins on January 20, coinciding with Trump’s inauguration.
Five shelters will be placed in regions south of San Diego, California, which sees the highest number of border crossings. Another two facilities will operate south of El Centro, California, to address the volume of deportees in those areas.
Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda confirmed the shelters are part of a strategic plan to handle mass deportations. She highlighted the urgency due to Trump’s campaign rhetoric, which signaled stricter immigration enforcement.
Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda: "What we do know, throughout his campaign, he threatened to do this, and since he was already president of the United States, we believe this time he will be stricter and tougher when it comes to deportations."
The shelters are designed solely for Mexican nationals. Deportees from other countries will not be accommodated in these facilities. Officials clarified that this distinction ensures resources are prioritized for returning Mexican citizens.
Governor Olmeda also emphasized the focus on human rights during the deportation and reintegration process. Deportees will stay in the shelters for a few days before being sent to their hometowns. The Mexican government’s proactive measures highlight its acknowledgment of Trump’s immigration policies. Officials have framed the shelters as part of broader efforts to assist citizens while maintaining dignity and respect.
President-elect Donald Trump has committed to deporting millions of undocumented individuals as part of a historic crackdown. His conversation with Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo further emphasized the seriousness of these plans.
Trump stated that Sheinbaum had agreed to stop migration through Mexico and into the U.S. However, Sheinbaum refuted this interpretation, asserting that Mexico respects migrants' rights and focuses on assistance rather than border closures.
President of Mexico Claudia Sheinbaum: "Thanks to this, migrants and caravans are assisted before they reach the border. We reiterate that Mexico’s position is not to close borders but to build bridges between governments and between peoples."
Despite differing narratives, the Mexican government’s preparations suggest alignment on the need for structured responses to migration challenges. These efforts aim to balance practical solutions with the country’s commitment to human rights.
The shelters underscore Mexico’s efforts to prepare for an expected influx of deportees. Each facility will provide temporary housing and assistance as deported citizens transition back into their communities. Officials have stressed that the initiative is not about closing borders but about managing the effects of mass deportations responsibly. Mexico remains committed to assisting migrants while safeguarding its citizens’ welfare.
As Trump’s inauguration approaches, Mexico’s shelter plan demonstrates a strategic response to potential challenges. The focus on humane treatment and reintegration reflects a broader vision of cooperation and resilience.
