Mexico Opens Legal Aid Centers to Fight US Deportations

Mexico has opened legal aid centers at consulates in 50 US cities, in a move designed to protect its citizens from tougher immigration enforcement.

Mexican Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray reaffirmed concerns about the human rights of Mexicans in the US, BBC reported.

But migrant defense centers would not “promote illegality”, he said.

Mexico is worried about the impact guidelines issued last month by US President Donald Trump will have on the lives of its citizens.

Migrants suspected of any offence, including traffic violations, will be targeted for deportation.

Trump ordered federal agents to join local police and immigration officers to enforce deportation procedures.

Millions of Mexicans who have lived in the US for many years are suddenly facing the prospect of fighting a lengthy and costly legal battle against deportation.

The new defense centers will provide free legal assistance for Mexican citizens who feel that their rights in the US are being threatened.

Bilateral relations have reached its lowest point in decades.

A week after being sworn in January, Trump reaffirmed his intention to build a wall along his country’s southern border, which extends for 3,200 km. He insisted that Mexico would have to bear the cost of the proposed wall.

The remarks prompted Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto to cancel a visit to Washington on 31 January and announce extra funding to protect the rights of Mexican citizens in the US.