Strengthening Research Initiatives for People on the Move

Mexico has long been affected by migration, both as a source and transit country for people on the move, particularly those migrating from Central America with the goal of reaching the United States. More recently, Mexico has also become a destination country for increasing numbers of migrants who have fewer legal avenues to reach their intended destinations, such as the U.S. or Canada. The situation at the U.S.-Mexico border has been complex and fluid, with hurdles such as legal and policy changes, violence, and limited access to healthcare and mental health services for migrants. In response to this circumstance, Columbia University graduate students collaborated with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) to conduct research on migration from Central America to Mexico and the U.S., with an emphasis on health and mental health services.

Importantly, this report contextualized existing evidence with the points of view of 104 direct service providers, advocates, and subject matter experts (35 interviewed and 69 surveyed) to create a clearer understanding of current migration trends in relation to health and mental health services in Mexico. The research identified gaps in access to healthcare and mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) services for migrants in Mexico and the U.S.-Mexico border region. Participants emphasized the need for improved continuity of care along the migratory route and a more streamlined approach for monitoring health trends and improving information sharing among and between service providers to prevent re-victimization of migrants.