Guatemala Accepts U.S. Deportees: What It Means for Belize

In about two weeks, the United States of America will inaugurate its 47th president—Donald J. Trump. With this come major shifts under Trump’s anticipated rigorous administration, particularly in the immigration sector, with new policies expected to tighten deportations.

Guatemala is open to accepting citizens from other Central American countries who are deported from the United States as part of efforts to build a positive relationship with the incoming Trump administration. It has also been reported that Guatemala is willing to play a role in the regional response to the increase in deportations expected under President-elect Donald Trump. A Guatemalan official noted, “There has to be a regional response… and we want to be part of the solution.”

This move comes as the U.S. struggles to deport people from countries like Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Haiti, with strained relations complicating deportation efforts. Guatemala, however, is actively preparing for an uptick in deportation flights and is already receiving 14 per week under President Biden. This figure is expected to rise under Trump. Guatemala sees this influx as an opportunity to utilise the skills of the deportees, many of whom have experience in industries like construction and service and speak English. The country aims to integrate these individuals into the private sector, although officials are concerned about the strain deportations may put on the economy, especially if remittances from the U.S. decline.

Neighbouring countries like El Salvador and Honduras are also bracing for an increase in deportees. Honduras has already been receiving 10 deportation flights per week, with their foreign minister stating the country is preparing for a significant rise.

But what could this mean for Belize? Given the already porous nature of its borders, Belize can expect many challenges. Attorney Audrey Matura shared with the viewers of the morning show, Open Your Eyes, on Thursday that this can mean more individuals attempting to cross into Belize. Matura stated, “Our border is porous. These people will find their way back into Belize, maybe trying to make it back to Mexico. We need to prepare for that… It’s going to have a big political impact and economic impact on Belize.”