Are you curious about the length of Mexico’s southern border? At gaymexico.net, we understand that exploring Mexico involves understanding its geography, especially for our LGBTQ+ travelers seeking safe and informed adventures. This guide offers a comprehensive look at the southern border’s length, its significance, and what it means for travelers and communities alike, while navigating Mexico’s diverse landscape with awareness and respect is key.
Let’s dive into the details of Mexico’s southern border, offering insights into its length, the regions it traverses, and the factors shaping this vital area for the LGBTQ+ community.
1. What Is the Exact Length of Mexico’s Southern Border?
Mexico’s southern border stretches approximately 694 miles (1,114 kilometers). This border primarily separates Mexico from Guatemala, with a smaller section bordering Belize. According to research from the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA), the southern border region is a complex area with diverse terrains and socio-economic factors influencing migration and border security.
Expanding on the Border’s Geography
The Mexican-Guatemalan border accounts for most of the southern border, running for about 596 miles (960 kilometers). The remaining 98 miles (154 kilometers) are shared with Belize. This area is a mix of rivers, dense jungles, and mountainous regions, presenting unique challenges for border management and those who traverse it.
Why Does the Length of Mexico’s Southern Border Matter?
Understanding the length and nature of Mexico’s southern border is crucial for several reasons:
- Migration: It’s a key transit point for migrants from Central America and other regions.
- Security: Border security efforts significantly impact the lives of migrants and local communities.
- Trade: Cross-border trade and economic activities are vital for the region’s economy.
- Tourism: For LGBTQ+ travelers, knowing the geography helps in planning safe and informed trips.
How Does the Terrain Affect Border Control?
The diverse terrain along Mexico’s southern border makes it difficult to monitor and control. The dense jungles and remote areas provide opportunities for undocumented crossings and illicit activities. According to a WOLA report, the deployment of Mexico’s National Guard to the southern border has led migrants to seek more remote routes, increasing their vulnerability to criminal groups.
2. Which Countries Share a Border with Mexico to the South?
Mexico shares its southern border with two countries: Guatemala and Belize. Guatemala makes up the majority of the border, while Belize has a smaller section. This geographical relationship influences various aspects, including migration patterns and regional security.
Guatemala: The Primary Bordering Nation
The border with Guatemala is not only longer but also more complex in terms of socio-economic interactions and migration flows. The shared history and cultural ties between the border regions of Mexico and Guatemala create a unique dynamic that affects border management strategies.
Belize: A Smaller but Significant Border
Although the border with Belize is shorter, it is strategically important due to its location on the Yucatan Peninsula and its proximity to the Caribbean. The Belize border presents different challenges and opportunities for trade, tourism, and environmental conservation.
What Are the Key Border Cities?
Several cities along Mexico’s southern border serve as important hubs for trade, migration, and cultural exchange:
| City in Mexico | Bordering Country | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Ciudad Hidalgo | Guatemala | Major crossing point for trade and migration |
| Tapachula | Guatemala | Key city for asylum seekers and extra-continental migrants |
| Frontera Comalapa | Guatemala | Border town with significant migrant shelter presence |
| Benemérito de las Americas | Guatemala | Town with unofficial crossings along the Usumacinta River |
| Chetumal | Belize | Capital city of Quintana Roo, important for tourism and trade with Belize |
How Does This Affect LGBTQ+ Travelers?
For LGBTQ+ travelers, understanding the border cities and their dynamics is crucial for planning safe and informed trips. Cities like Tapachula, while offering resources for migrants and asylum seekers, may also present safety concerns due to increased security and potential for social unrest.
3. What Security Measures Are in Place Along Mexico’s Southern Border?
Since June 2019, Mexico has dramatically intensified its migration enforcement following pressure from the U.S. government. This has included deploying the National Guard, increasing checkpoints, and collaborating with U.S. agencies. According to WOLA, these measures have raised human rights concerns and altered migration routes.
Deployment of the National Guard
The deployment of nearly 12,000 members of the National Guard to the southern border region is a significant aspect of Mexico’s security measures. The vast majority of these guardsmen are active soldiers or military police, many of them only temporarily reassigned to conduct these tasks. This raises concerns about whether guardsmen—most of whom have primarily military training—have received adequate human rights training or guidelines on how to interact with vulnerable populations.
Impact on Migration Flows
The increased security measures have driven migrants to travel through more remote areas, where they are more likely to fall prey to criminal groups. Smugglers are adapting to this new shift, finding new routes and methods to transport migrants across the border. The crackdown has also overwhelmed migrant detention centers, leading to concerns about inadequate screening of potential asylum seekers.
U.S. Assistance in Border Security
The United States continues to provide assistance to Mexico to help tighten its southern border and increase Mexico’s capacity to process and receive asylum seekers. This includes funding the construction of communications towers and the installation of biometric equipment in migrant detention centers.
How Does This Affect LGBTQ+ Asylum Seekers?
For LGBTQ+ asylum seekers, these security measures can create additional challenges. The increased risk of encountering criminal groups in remote areas and the potential for inadequate screening in overwhelmed detention centers can jeopardize their safety and asylum claims. Organizations like gaymexico.net can help LGBTQ+ individuals find resources and support during this challenging process.
4. What Are the Main Points of Entry Along Mexico’s Southern Border?
Key points of entry along Mexico’s southern border include official crossings and unofficial routes. The official crossings are heavily monitored, while the unofficial routes are often used by migrants seeking to avoid detection. According to the Washington Office on Latin America, the shift in migration routes is causing changes in the dynamics of these border regions.
Official Border Crossings
The main official border crossings between Mexico and its southern neighbors are:
- Ciudad Hidalgo, Chiapas: This is the busiest crossing point on the Mexico-Guatemala border, facilitating trade and migration.
- Talisman, Chiapas: Another significant crossing point near Tapachula, used for both commercial and human transit.
- Ciudad Cuauhtémoc, Chiapas: Located in a mountainous region, this crossing connects Mexico with Guatemala’s highlands.
- Subteniente López, Quintana Roo: The primary border crossing between Mexico and Belize, crucial for tourism and trade.
Unofficial Border Crossings
Unofficial border crossings, known as “puntos ciegos” (blind spots), are common due to the extensive and porous nature of the border. These routes are often used to avoid detection by authorities. The crackdown on official routes has led to an increase in the use of these unofficial crossings, making migrants more vulnerable.
The Suchiate River
The Suchiate River, which forms part of the border between Mexico and Guatemala, is a significant point for undocumented crossings. While guardsmen are stationed at the raft companies’ crossing points, migrants can still cross in more remote areas, increasing their vulnerability to assault or other dangers.
How Do These Entry Points Affect LGBTQ+ Migrants?
For LGBTQ+ migrants, the choice of entry point can have significant implications. Official crossings may offer some level of security but also involve the risk of detention and potential discrimination. Unofficial crossings, while avoiding detection, can expose them to criminal groups and other dangers.
5. What Challenges Do Migrants Face When Crossing Mexico’s Southern Border?
Migrants face numerous challenges, including violence, exploitation, and limited access to resources. Criminal organizations often target migrants for extortion, kidnapping, and trafficking. According to Human Rights Watch, these challenges are exacerbated by inadequate protection from Mexican authorities.
Crimes Against Migrants
Migrants transiting through southern Mexico continue to suffer assault, robbery, rape, and kidnapping at the hands of organized crime or common criminals. Almost the entirety of these crimes goes unpunished. The majority of shelter workers and human rights defenders interviewed by WOLA noted that the problem, while at serious levels, did not substantially worsen between 2018 and 2019. However, migrant rights defenders in Tenosique, Tabasco, reported an alarming uptick in serious crimes against migrants, such as sexual violence and brutal kidnappings.
Overcrowded Detention Facilities
Mexico’s sharp increase in migrant apprehensions has left the majority of detention facilities operating far beyond capacity. In August, detention centers and short-term detention facilities were housing on average 61 percent more migrants than they were meant to hold, with some facilities operating 300 percent over capacity. Most lack adequate sanitary facilities, access to healthcare, or even fresh food.
Limited Access to Asylum
A surge of asylum seekers in Mexico has put the country’s refugee agency on the verge of collapse, yet the Mexican government has yet to allocate substantial resources to strengthen its capacity. With only three main offices across the country, the Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance (COMAR) is severely under-resourced and understaffed. In the first 11 months of the year, COMAR received almost 67,000 asylum requests—more than double what it received in all of 2018. Despite this reality, the 2020 budget for COMAR is a mere USD$2.35 million.
How Are LGBTQ+ Migrants Specifically Affected?
LGBTQ+ migrants face additional challenges due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Discrimination, violence, and lack of safe spaces can make their journey even more perilous. At gaymexico.net, we strive to provide resources and information to help LGBTQ+ migrants navigate these challenges.
6. How Does the National Guard Impact Migration Enforcement at Mexico’s Southern Border?
The National Guard, deployed to assist with migration enforcement, raises human rights concerns. The Mexican government has deployed nearly 12,000 members of its newly created National Guard to its southern border region as part of its agreement with the United States to beef up immigration enforcement efforts.
Human Rights Concerns
The vast majority of these guardsmen are active soldiers or military police, many of them only temporarily reassigned to conduct these tasks. This raises concerns about whether guardsmen—most of whom have primarily military training—have received adequate human rights training or guidelines on how to interact with vulnerable populations.
Driving Migrants to Remote Areas
The National Guard deployment has driven migrants to travel through more remote areas where they are more likely to fall prey to criminal groups. This shift in migration routes increases the risks faced by vulnerable populations.
Disarray Within the INM
The National Guard’s control over enforcement at the local level is enhanced by disarray within the INM. With new staff starting under the AMLO administration, and then even more staff changes after Guillén’s departure, many INM mid-level officials and state delegates lack experience.
What Can LGBTQ+ Migrants Do?
LGBTQ+ migrants should seek support from organizations that provide legal assistance and protection. It is crucial to document any incidents of abuse or discrimination and report them to the appropriate authorities. Connecting with LGBTQ+ networks and support groups can also provide a sense of community and safety.
7. What Is the Role of the Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance (COMAR)?
The Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance (COMAR) is responsible for processing asylum claims in Mexico. However, it is severely under-resourced and understaffed, struggling to cope with the increasing number of asylum requests. According to a WOLA report, this situation has left many asylum seekers in precarious conditions.
Overwhelmed by Asylum Requests
In the first 11 months of the year, COMAR received almost 67,000 asylum requests—more than double what it received in all of 2018. Despite this reality, the 2020 budget for COMAR is a mere USD$2.35 million. The agency’s ability to process claims depends on the support it receives from the UNHCR, whose 2019 operating budget for Mexico is over 25 times that of COMAR’s—around USD$60 million.
Limited Resources and Staff
With only three main offices across the country, COMAR is severely under-resourced and understaffed. This makes it difficult for asylum seekers to access the assistance they need and prolongs the processing time for their claims.
The Importance of UNHCR Support
The UNHCR provides essential support to COMAR, helping to improve its capacity and provide assistance to asylum seekers. This support includes funding, technical assistance, and training for COMAR staff.
How Can LGBTQ+ Individuals Access COMAR Services?
LGBTQ+ individuals seeking asylum in Mexico should contact COMAR to initiate the asylum process. It is also advisable to seek legal assistance from organizations that specialize in refugee and asylum law. Connecting with LGBTQ+ support networks can provide additional guidance and support.
8. How Does US Policy Impact Mexico’s Southern Border?
US policy significantly influences Mexico’s approach to migration enforcement. Increased pressure from the US government has led Mexico to tighten its border security measures. According to WOLA, this has had profound consequences for migrants and asylum seekers in the region.
Increased Enforcement
The Trump administration demanded that Mexico do whatever it takes to stop the flow immediately, threatening to slap tariffs on Mexican goods. This ultimatum led to increased migration enforcement, with Mexico apprehending 31,416 migrants in June, the highest monthly total in all publicly available data going back to 2001.
Migrant Protection Protocols
The Mexican government agreed to the massive expansion of the so-called Migrant Protection Protocols (otherwise known as “Remain in Mexico”), which enables the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to send asylum seekers back to Mexico to wait for their immigration hearings in the United States.
US Assistance to Mexico
The United States continues to provide assistance to Mexico to help tighten its southern border and to increase Mexico’s capacity to process and receive asylum seekers. This includes funding the construction of communications towers in southern Mexico as well as the installation of biometric equipment in all of Mexico’s 52 long- and short- term migrant detention centers.
What Can LGBTQ+ Advocates Do?
LGBTQ+ advocates can play a crucial role in shaping US policy by raising awareness, lobbying for humane immigration policies, and supporting organizations that provide assistance to migrants and asylum seekers. It is important to advocate for policies that protect the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
9. What Are Some Lesser-Known Facts About Mexico’s Southern Border?
Beyond the main narratives, Mexico’s southern border has many lesser-known facets. These insights can deepen our understanding of the region’s complexities.
The “Jungle Corridor”
One such corridor is the “jungle corridor,” leading from Quiché and Petén, Guatemala, up to towns along the railroad route that follows Mexico’s southern Gulf coast, like Palenque, Chiapas, and Tenosique, Tabasco. This route takes migrants through towns sympathetic to the Zapatista movement, where residents have established autonomous zones that operate outside of Mexican authorities.
The Role of Local Communities
Local communities along the border often play a significant role in assisting or hindering migrants. Some communities provide support and shelter, while others may be complicit in criminal activities. Understanding these local dynamics is crucial for developing effective strategies to protect vulnerable populations.
Corruption
Corruption is a pervasive issue along the border, with security forces and migration authorities often involved in illicit activities. According to a WOLA report, corruption undermines efforts to reduce undocumented migration and perpetuates a cycle of exploitation and abuse.
How Can Travelers Be Aware?
Travelers should research the areas they plan to visit and be aware of local conditions and potential risks. Supporting local organizations that work to protect migrants’ rights can make a positive impact. Being informed and respectful of local cultures and customs is essential for safe and meaningful travel.
10. Where Can I Find More Resources and Support for LGBTQ+ Issues in Mexico?
Gaymexico.net provides comprehensive resources and support for LGBTQ+ individuals interested in Mexico. From travel guides to community connections, we offer information to help you explore Mexico safely and authentically.
LGBTQ+ Travel Guides
Our travel guides offer insights into LGBTQ+-friendly destinations, events, and accommodations in Mexico. We also provide tips for staying safe and navigating local customs.
Community Connections
Connect with LGBTQ+ communities in Mexico through our network of local organizations and support groups. We can help you find resources and build relationships with people who share your interests and values.
Legal and Advocacy Resources
Access legal and advocacy resources to learn about LGBTQ+ rights in Mexico and how to protect yourself from discrimination and violence. We provide information on local laws and organizations that offer legal assistance.
Stay Informed
Visit gaymexico.net regularly for updates on LGBTQ+ issues in Mexico, including news, events, and resources. We are committed to providing accurate and timely information to help you stay informed and connected.
Connect with gaymexico.net
For more information and support, visit our website at gaymexico.net or contact us at Address: 3255 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010, United States. Phone: +1 (213) 380-2177. Our team is here to help you explore Mexico safely and authentically.
At gaymexico.net, we believe that travel should be inclusive and empowering. By understanding the complexities of Mexico’s southern border and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, we can work together to create a more welcoming and equitable world. Visit gaymexico.net today to discover the beauty and diversity of Mexico, connect with LGBTQ+ communities, and plan your next adventure.
