In brief
Tijuana, a historic gateway for migrants to the U.S., now sees its streets and shelters nearly empty. This decline follows increased immigration enforcement under the Trump administration, with border apprehensions dramatically decreasing in recent months.
In the bustling border town of Tijuana, known for its vital role in U.S.-Mexico crossings, the streets that once thrived with migrants awaiting entry into the United States are eerily deserted. Traditionally packed with hopeful asylum seekers and bustling shelters, Tijuana is now confronting a sudden and stark drop in migrant numbers, reflecting broader trends in the region.On Thursday, only five individuals were present at the border crossing point where crowds had once assembled, indicating a significant shift in migration dynamics. Lenis Mojica, a Venezuelan migrant residing in a local shelter, noted, “People aren’t coming here. Everyone has left. No one else has arrived.” This sentiment echoes through many shelters across the city, which were previously filled with families and individuals seeking refuge.The decline is not an isolated incident, as other Mexican border cities report similar trends. This downturn began before the inauguration of President Trump, but the severity increased following his administration's commitment to tightening immigration policies. The latest figures reveal a sharp drop in U.S. border apprehensions, plummeting from approximately 250,000 in December 2023 to just 8,383 in April 2025.Experts point to the culmination of policy shifts, increased enforcement, and changing international circumstances as contributing factors to the reduction in migrants attempting to cross into the U.S. What was once a bustling lifeline for those seeking new opportunities is now characterized by quiet streets and abandoned shelters, raising questions about the future of migration in this key area.
