Expert Warns New Appointment System for Migrants May Not Curb Border Flow

The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has made changes to the migrant appointment system in an effort to streamline the process for those seeking to cross the U.S.-Mexico border. This includes allowing individuals to request appointments through the CBP One mobile app from a wider range of locations in Mexico.

Under the new system, migrants need to schedule an appointment at one of the eight land ports of entry along the southwest border. The goal is to reduce the number of unauthorized arrivals and manage the high volume of migration more effectively.

However, José María Ramos García, a researcher at El Colegio de la Frontera Norte (COLEF), believes that these changes may not significantly impact the flow of migrants. He argues that the appeal of certain border crossings, such as Tijuana – San Diego, remains strong due to the perceived manageability of conditions in those areas.

The ongoing migration trend has seen a substantial number of individuals arriving in the United States, with approximately one million migrants being admitted under the Biden administration. This increase is driven by various factors including economic hardship, violence, and political instability in migrants' home countries.

Despite the changes to the appointment system, it is expected that the attractiveness of certain border regions and the broader context of migration policies will continue to shape migration trends. Ongoing analysis and adjustments will be important to address the complexities of migration and ensure that systems in place effectively manage the needs and flows of people seeking entry into the United States.