In a statement, MSF said that the elimination of the CBP One dating application is a measure that not only represents a serious setback in the protection of the rights of migrants seeking asylum, but will bring immediate and “prolonged” repercussions.
“It is an irresponsible decision that will have immediate and long-term repercussions on the lives, health and well-being of many people,” said Adriana Palomares, general coordinator of MSF in Mexico.
Although imperfect and limited, Palomares considered, CBP One offered the possibility of managing appointments to request asylum at US ports of entry, thus avoiding in some cases dangerous routes and exposure to human trafficking networks.
“Its closure, together with the lack of legal and dignified alternatives, forces many people who were often already fleeing contexts of violence and exclusion to remain trapped in high-risk areas in Mexico and other countries in the region,” he stressed.
“A patient had to be treated this Monday for an anxiety crisis after the cancellation of her appointment, previously approved for the beginning of February, and which also included her family,” added Ramón Márquez, coordinator of the MSF Comprehensive Care Center. in Mexico City.
The humanitarian organization observed that, although some people remain hopeful that solutions will be presented in the future, a combination of frustration, sadness and fear predominates among assisted migrants.
“Some had bought tickets to go to the border for their appointment, sold belongings or left jobs and even on some occasions were separated from members of their family,” he noted.
“People are now in an unbearable limbo that adds to the violence, as many migrants report having suffered episodes such as robberies, kidnappings and extortions by different armed actors, which leave an impact on their physical and mental health.”
MSF emphasized that the immigration policies applied by Trump, such as the reinstatement of the “Remain in Mexico” program, dehumanize and attack people on the move in an alarming manner and have effects that it described as devastating.
“Immigrating and requesting asylum is a right, not a crime. Immigration policies focused on people and their protection are urgently needed, both in the United States and in Mexico and other countries in the region,” he added.
