Colombian authorities have agreed to start receiving applications from irregular migrants who are already in the country, as part of a new measure to reduce the amount of illegal migration. This Saturday, representatives of the United States and Colombia met with Casa Blanca to discuss the new initiative, which will open up various legal pathways for migrants to enter the country safely and legally.
The alternative used to be a dangerous journey to the US-Mexico border, where migrants could then cross in search for safety or better economic opportunities. But now, the Colombian government is trying to find viable and more secure pathways for these migrants to enter Colombia, without having to resort to travelling clandestinely across dangerous areas and risking their lives.
Therefore, beginning June 19, the Colombian Police Department will open up Safe Mobility Workshops, where migrants can apply for admission to the country to seek safety or job opportunities. The Workshops will provide advice on how to migrate in a legal manner. The following six months will be dedicated to processing the applications, and thus far the response has been positive.
Migration can be a difficult process and come with its own legislative and logistical issues, but hopefully this new initiative by the Colombian government can offer a more secure and peaceful solution. It is a humane gesture that will no doubt help in reducing illegal migration into South America and offer those desperate to find a better future a chance.