In recent news, it has been reported that migrant crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border have dropped after the expiry of Title 42. This policy, put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowed for the rapid expulsion of migrants apprehended at the border, without allowing them to seek asylum or other forms of protection in the United States.
The Title 42 policy was implemented by the Trump administration in March 2020 and was continued by the Biden administration. However, on November 22, 2021, the Biden administration announced that it would expire on January 21, 2022. The expiry of this policy has led to a decrease in the number of migrants being expelled at the border.
According to reports, the number of apprehensions at the border dropped from more than 178,000 in November 2021 to just over 151,000 in December 2021. This decrease may be attributed to a variety of factors, including the expiry of Title 42, but it is difficult to pinpoint any single cause.
Many advocates for migrants and asylum-seekers have welcomed the expiry of Title 42, as it allows for individuals to apply for asylum or other forms of protection in the United States. However, there are concerns that the Biden administration may continue to implement restrictive immigration policies that limit the rights of migrants and asylum-seekers.
Overall, the decrease in migrant crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border is a significant development that will likely continue to be watched closely by policymakers, advocates, and the public. It remains to be seen how the Biden administration will approach immigration policy in the coming months and years, and how this will impact the lives of migrants and asylum-seekers seeking refuge in the United States.
