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The pandemic is not going to stop immigration

Central American migrants in a shelter in Mexico City. (Photo credit: United Nations Refugee Agency/Daniel Dreifuss)
Central American migrants in a shelter in Mexico City. (Photo credit: United Nations Refugee Agency/Daniel Dreifuss)

Despite the coronavirus pandemic, immigration is not going to stop, especially from Central America.

That’s because what migrants and refugees are leaving behind is worse than what lies ahead.

Central America is home to the most intractable poverty in the Americas, and the highest rates of violence.

Whether they’re headed to the United States or anywhere else, they have to go through Mexico.

Refugees also come to Mexico from Haiti, fleeing poverty, crime and political violence.

What they encounter there, as COVID-19 infiltrates Mexico’s health system, is worrisome.

Government-run shelters for refugees and migrants are typically densely crowded, with limited facilities, and communal dining areas.

Social distancing is almost impossible, despite the best efforts of health officials, and a health emergency seems likely.

Sources: Citylab

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