Binational Immigration Reform: A Shared Responsibility for U.S.-Mexico Cooperation

As a migrant from Mexico and a Latino leader in the United States, I have experienced firsthand the deep interconnection between our two nations. The stories of those crossing borders reflect both hope and the human cost of a broken immigration system. The U.S. and Mexico share an unavoidable responsibility: to work together on a comprehensive immigration reform that addresses the causes and consequences of migration.

Today, millions are displaced by poverty, violence, and climate change. These forces are reshaping migration patterns and creating challenges on both sides of the border. In the U.S., migration places significant pressure on border communities and deepens political divisions. In Mexico, it has transformed the country into a critical transit point, bringing humanitarian and security challenges that demand urgent action.

The solution isn’t in higher walls or mass deportations—it lies in genuine collaboration through binational immigration reform. What we need is a bold, inclusive approach. This begins with creating legal pathways that allow people to work, study, and live with dignity. At the same time, binational task forces can target key challenges such as human trafficking, strengthen border security, and modernize infrastructure to facilitate safer and more efficient cross-border flows.

Did you know Mexico is the second-largest recipient of remittances in the world, after India? In 2024, remittances from the U.S. to Mexico reached an all-time high of over $60 billion. These funds are a lifeline for countless families, but they also highlight the profound economic interdependence between our two countries. Regulated and orderly migration is not only humane but also an engine for economic development.

Addressing the root causes of migration is equally critical. Investments in Central America to expand economic opportunities and strengthen regional security must be a priority. Both the U.S. and Mexico, with support from international allies, must commit to long-term initiatives that create stability and growth in the region.

At the heart of any reform must be human dignity. Policies that ensure access to education, healthcare, and legal assistance not only protect migrants’ rights but also strengthen binational communities. Local initiatives that foster empathy and support for migrants should be expanded, building bridges of understanding across borders.

Migration is not just a challenge—it is an economic opportunity. A well-regulated system can meet the labor market needs of both nations, spur innovation, and support balanced regional development. For example, Nogales, Sonora, located near Phoenix, is an ideal hub for nearshoring opportunities and cross-border cooperation. Its proximity to major U.S. markets and expanding infrastructure make it a model for what is possible when collaboration leads the way.

The U.S. and Mexico have a unique opportunity to transform a dysfunctional immigration system into a model of cooperation that benefits millions. This is not just a political issue—it is a moral imperative and a historic chance to build a more just and prosperous future for North America.