Claudia Sheinbaum Denies Mexico Being a “Safe Third Country” in US Migration Policy

Web Editor

June 24, 2025

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Background on Claudia Sheinbaum and Her Relevance

Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo is the current Head of Government (equivalent to Mayor) of Mexico City, a role she has held since 2018. As one of the most prominent figures in Mexico’s left-wing political party, Morena, she has been instrumental in shaping policies and addressing issues relevant to Mexico City’s residents. Her recent stance on the United States’ migration policies highlights her commitment to upholding human rights and maintaining Mexico’s sovereignty.

Sheinbaum’s Rejection of “Safe Third Country” Status

On Tuesday, Claudia Sheinbaum firmly rejected the notion that Mexico had agreed to become a “safe third country” under the United States’ migration strategy. She clarified that no formal agreement has been signed to this effect.

Migration Figures and Mexico’s Stance

Since January 20, 2025, when Donald Trump assumed the US presidency, approximately 651,475 individuals have entered Mexico. Of these, 597,747 are Mexican nationals and 5,728 are foreigners. Sheinbaum emphasized that Mexico receives individuals in accordance with human rights principles, verifying if they wish to return to their home countries or finding temporary integration alternatives.

US Repatriation Agreements and Mexico’s Role

Sheinbaum highlighted that the United States has direct repatriation agreements with most countries, rendering Mexico unnecessary for migrants’ return to their homelands. Furthermore, she mentioned that Washington has repatriated individuals “even to Africa” without Mexico’s involvement.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Q: Has Mexico agreed to become a “safe third country” under US migration policy? A: No, Mexico has not agreed to this status. There is no formal agreement signed between the two countries.
  • Q: How many individuals have entered Mexico since 2025? A: Approximately 651,475 individuals have entered Mexico since January 20, 2025.
  • Q: What is Mexico’s approach to receiving migrants? A> Mexico receives individuals in accordance with human rights principles, verifying if they wish to return to their home countries or finding temporary integration alternatives.
  • Q: Does the US need Mexico for repatriating migrants? A: No, the US has direct repatriation agreements with most countries, making Mexico’s involvement unnecessary for migrants’ return to their homelands.