UN Agencies, EU Foster Economic Inclusion in Mexico

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the International Organization for Migration (IOM/UN Migration) and the EU are establishing mechanisms that promote the integration of migrants in Mexico by ensuring access to decent employment. The project will be executed in key locations across Mexico, chosen for its substantial population on the move, labor requirements and willingness to achieve the successful integration of the mobile population.

“UNHCR has extensive experience in the labor integration of refugees. Since 2016, over 31,000 refugees in Mexico have gained access to formal employment through our renowned integration program supported by the EU. This forms the foundation upon which we can expand the scope of inclusion for people on the move, now in this joint project with our sister agency, IOM and the EU,” says Giovanni Lepri, Mexico’s Representative, ACNUR. 

The project aims to address the significant need for workers in Mexico's private sector and promote the inclusion of migrants, refugees, returnees and internally displaced persons into the formal labor market, particularly for those who have chosen to stay in the country, as reported by the EU. Moreover, assistance will be offered to individuals on the move to facilitate their socio-economic integration. This support encompasses various administrative procedures like obtaining a Unique Population Registry Code (CURP) or work permits, as well as ensuring access to fundamental rights.

While about 12 million Mexicans are living in the US, only 1% of Mexico’s population is a foreigner. Mexico has witnessed the successful settlement and formal employment of numerous refugees and asylum seekers, including the 12,000 individuals who have actively participated in UNHCR's Resettlement and Local Integration Program, as reported by México Cómo Vamos. 

"The migrant population increasingly sees Mexico as an attractive country with abundant job opportunities and prospects for starting a new life. It is also a country experiencing a growing number of returnees due to migration policies or other measures implemented by third countries. In this context, we believe that the socio-economic integration of a rapidly expanding mobile population can be highly beneficial," says Dana Graber, Mexico’s Representative, OIM. 

With a budget of €5.75 million (US$6.8 million) and a timeline of 43 months, the project aims to foster social cohesion and sustainable, inclusive growth in Mexico.