### Reduction in Irregular Border Crossings to the United States by 55%: DHS
Irregular border crossings in the San Diego sector have decreased by 55% since an executive order was issued by U.S. President Joe Biden on June 2nd, according to Luis Miranda, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Communications at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
“There was a 55% reduction at the beginning of the year, and even more when compared to the highest figures in December,” Miranda stated.
In July 2024, there were 15,563 irregular crossings at entry ports, compared to 25,000 in June, 32,000 in May, and 37,000 in April. In December 2023, the numbers spiked to 34,000.
This significant decrease is also attributed to stricter border policies enacted following the executive order. Individuals detained by the Border Patrol are usually sent back to their home countries, except in cases involving asylum seekers, human trafficking victims, medical emergencies, or unaccompanied minors.
From June 5 to the end of July this year, over 92,000 deportations were carried out to more than 130 countries, facilitated by over 300 international repatriation flights, primarily within the Americas.
Miranda highlighted that most people who crossed illegally in 2021, 2022, or 2023 have already been deported.
Since the implementation of the CBP One app on January 18, 2023, 765,000 appointments have been recorded by the end of July, mainly for Venezuelan, Cuban, Mexican, and Haitian nationals.
However, data from the White House shows that only about 20% of asylum seekers receive approval.
Recently, the app was updated to enable Mexican nationals to apply for asylum from anywhere in the country. Meanwhile, foreign nationals can apply from Tabasco and Chiapas, aiming to reduce the risks associated with migration, such as fatalities during attempts to scale walls or cross rivers like the Colorado.
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### Additional Coverage on Immigration Policies and Border Security
**Mexico-North America Migration Tensions**
On September 3, 2024, officials from both countries met to discuss ongoing challenges and initiatives concerning immigration. Both sides acknowledged the complexity and importance of balancing border security with humanitarian needs. According to recent reports, both nations are considering further collaborations to strengthen border security and streamline legal migration processes.
**U.S. Border Patrol Experiences Strain Amid Policy Changes**
Border Patrol agents are experiencing increasing pressure as they adapt to new policies and technologies like the CBP One app. There is ongoing training to ensure agents are well-versed in these changes. Additionally, concerns about agent welfare and job satisfaction are rising as the demands of the job grow more challenging.
**International Repatriation Efforts Increase**
As the U.S. continues to intensify its repatriation efforts, the volume of international flights for deportations has increased significantly. Governments across the Americas are coordinating closely to manage the influx of returning nationals. Various NGOs and international bodies are monitoring these processes to ensure that the rights and well-being of the deported individuals are preserved.
These efforts reflect a broader strategy by the U.S. administration to reduce irregular migration and promote safer, legal pathways for those seeking a better life.