Navigating Migration and Human Rights in Mexico: The Impact of International Law on National Policies

The paper elaborates on the complex interaction between international law and national migration policy in Mexico from the perspective of human rights. First, the historical and political context of the issue of migration in Mexico is introduced, followed by the development of an explanation regarding how socioeconomic factors lead to migration flows and thus the problems which migrants must face. This paper argues that the securitization of migration has downplayed the protection of human rights for nationals, and it thus emphasises national policies over border control. It also discusses very important NGO activities in the sphere of advocating for migrants' rights in cases of government failure. A case study in Tijuana showed that migrants suffer violence, discrimination, and a lack of basic services. The paper discusses how policies that exist today cannot resolve the problems and require an integrated policy respectful of human rights, taking migration as a global problem. It contributes to the broader debate on migration and human rights, underlining the importance of bringing national policies up to international legal standards to protect migrants, treat them with dignity, and make this a reality in Mexico.