316 Recommendations for improving health and migration policies through a participatory approach in Mexico

Abstract OP 5: Health Policy 1, B308 (FCSH), September 3, 2025, 14:30 - 15:30 Introduction Human migration is a complex global phenomenon, with Mexico playing a critical role as an origin, transit, and destination country for a wide range of migrant groups. Despite policy changes aimed at expanding migrant access to social services, including healthcare, challenges persist in both accessing and providing health services to this population. This study presents recommendations to improve Mexico’s health and migration policies, developed through a participatory process with stakeholders from government institutions and civil society organizations. Methods Between 2022 and 2024, we held four participatory discussion groups involving 35 stakeholders from government and civil society. Group participants identified strategies to enhance the inclusivity, equity, and effectiveness of migration and health policies in Mexico. Audio recordings and session notes were analyzed to develop key recommendation themes. Suggestions from follow-up discussions were integrated into the recommendations document, which was reviewed and approved by all participants. Results From this collaborative process, we developed seven key policy recommendations: 1) Consider various migration contexts in policy design and implementation; 2) Create a multi-sectoral policy based on inclusion and human rights; 3) Bridge the gap between policy design and implementation; 4) Improve governance in health and migration policy; 5) Strengthen information systems to monitor health equity; 6) Address the global aspects of migration governance and their health impacts; and 7) Enhance local capacities to ensure migrants’ right to health. Conclusion Implementing these recommendations requires political will and resources to benefit migrant populations and also strengthen the public health system as a whole. An inclusive, human rights-based, and multisectoral approach to health policy is essential for ensuring equitable access to healthcare in an increasingly complex migration context.