### Pro-Migrant Associations Urge New Mayor of Tijuana to Revive Support Programs
Pro-migrant organizations are urging the new mayor of Tijuana to restore support programs and enhance the security of local shelters. José María Lara, director of Movement 2000, emphasized the need for more robust municipal police presence in shelters to ensure the safety of displaced residents. Under the previous administration led by Montserrat Caballero Ramírez, the municipal police presence was withdrawn, which had provided significant oversight and security.
Lara explained that several effective programs, including routine police patrols in all shelters, were discontinued in the last administration. Instead, security was managed remotely, which was less effective. He called on the new mayor, Ismael Burgueño Ruiz, to reestablish these police patrols to maintain order and safety in migrant shelters.
Additionally, Lara highlighted the reduction of essential support services such as the distribution of rice, beans, and other basic necessities, which were previously provided at the beginning of the last administration but were cut off last year. He invites the new mayor to engage with displaced migrant representatives to understand their needs and create new assistance initiatives.
“It is crucial to resume these actions for organizations that address this humanitarian need, as we are performing a small part of what the municipal, state, and federal governments should be doing,” Lara asserted, stressing the importance of continued support for those aiding displaced populations.
### Secondary Article: Decrease in Asylum Applications in Baja California
In a related topic affecting Tijuana, there has been a noted decrease in asylum applications in Baja California, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Various factors have contributed to this decline, including stricter immigration policies and increased uncertainty among migrants regarding their chances of obtaining asylum.
Activists feel neglected with the appointment of the new head of the National Migration Institute (INM) in Baja California, as they express concerns about a potential lack of attention to migrant issues under the new leadership. Furthermore, a significant number of employers remain unaware of the documentation required to hire migrants legally, which exacerbates the challenges faced by displaced populations seeking employment.
Also noteworthy, the reconstruction of the Tijuana Beach Boardwalk remains halted, affecting the local community and businesses. While visitors’ numbers have not been significantly impacted, the timely resumption of work is being urged to avoid further inconvenience.
This suite of issues requires concerted efforts from both governmental and non-governmental agencies to ensure that support for migrants and local communities is sustained and enhanced.
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