In 2025, the number of people attempting to cross the U.S.-Mexico border declined, largely due to a combination of tighter security protocols and stronger immigration enforcement. One of the most impactful shifts was the revival of the “Remain in Mexico” policy. Under this rule, asylum seekers must stay in Mexico while their claims are reviewed by U.S. authorities—prompting many to rethink their plans.
Faster case processing and increased deportations have also played a role in the decline. Border officials have ramped up efforts to discourage unauthorized entry, continuing to enforce health-based measures like Title 42. For some migrants, long waits and concerns for personal safety have led them to voluntarily return to their home countries.
Key to this shift has been greater collaboration between the U.S. and Mexico. In 2025, Mexico deployed troops to its southern border to slow migrant movement before they reach the U.S. Analysts say this joint effort sends a clear signal: border control is tightening, and the outcome for would-be crossers is less certain than before.
While these changes have been effective in reducing migration numbers, they’ve also sparked ongoing debate. Critics and observers alike question the human cost of stricter enforcement, as more people on the move face delays, uncertainty, and difficult choices under the weight of evolving policies.
