As the surge in migration to the United States continues to rise, Costa Rican President Carlos Alvarado Quesada has declared a state of emergency in the country. The primary goal of the emergency declaration is to better combat illegal migration through the country towards the United States.
The decision to declare a state of emergency was prompted by the rapid influx of migrants, with over 200,000 migrants having entered the country since the beginning of 2021. This is a drastic increase from 2020, when less than 30,000 migrants entered the country. The vast majority of those entering the country are relying on Costa Rica as a unique pathway to reach the United States.
To address this issue, Costa Rica will be increasing efforts to deter the illegal crossings. This will include more resources dedicated to border patrol and immigration control as well as tougher sentences for those found guilty of illegally entering the country. The declaration will also allow for increased military presence along the northern border to help stem the tide of migrants.
President Alvarado Quesada has also pledged to push for more fair immigration laws in the United States, so that migrants are not forced to take dangerous routes like through Costa Rica to reach the United States. In a statement, President Alvarado Quesada said, “I will continue to work with the United States and other regional leaders to find a better, more humane path for migrants and refugees that does not put their lives at risk.”
Overall, the hope is that the state of emergency will help to address the surge of migrants heading to the United States. At the same time, the Costa Rican government is determined to ensure that the rights of refugees and migrants are respected. With any luck, the situation will soon stabilize and the problem of illegal immigration in the region can be properly addressed.