Central American Migration and US Politics

Central American immigration has come under renewed scrutiny this month, with President Trump warning of “caravans of people” and “massive inflows” along the US-Mexico border.

Beyond the political rhetoric, the reality is a bit more complicated. Recent research shows that Central American migration is continuing, but at declining levels. Moreover, nearly one in four Central American migrants cite violence and insecurity as their reasons for leaving their country, which complicates any plans to fast-track deportations.

The Inter-American Dialogue is pleased to host a panel of experts to consider recent trends in Central American migration and their interplay with US politics. The discussion will consider how many people are migrating, their demographic profile and reasons for leaving, and the challenges they face along the way. The discussion will also include options to address the immediate challenges and root causes of this migration within an increasingly complicated US political environment.

Follow this event on Twitter at #CAMigration and @The_Dialogue.

Speakers

Kristen Lionetti

Policy Director of the Office of Justice and Ecology of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States (@KristenLionetti)

Oscar Chacon

Co‐founder and Executive Director of Alianza Americas (@oachacon61)

Moderator

Manuel Orozco

Director of the Migration, Remittances and Development Program, Inter-American Dialogue (@manuelorozco65)