Significant Decline in Migrant Encounters After Presidential Proclamation

Presidential Proclamation Impact on Migrant Encounters

On June 4, 2024, President Biden announced a Presidential Proclamation that has notably impacted the dynamics at the U.S. southern border. The proclamation temporarily suspends the entry of certain noncitizens, resulting in a marked decline in migrant encounters. This strategic shift in policy has been instrumental in reshaping border enforcement and management tactics.

The immediate effect of this proclamation was evident in the significant decrease in Border Patrol encounters. Between ports of entry, encounters decreased by 29% from May to June 2024, reflecting the lowest monthly total since January 2021. These figures suggest a direct correlation between the new policy and the decline in unauthorized border crossings.

Detailed Statistics and Demographics

More granular data reveal a dramatic reduction in the seven-day average of encounters, which fell by more than 50% from the Presidential Proclamation announcement to the end of June 2024. To put these figures into perspective, the U.S. Border Patrol recorded 83,536 encounters between ports of entry along the southwest border in June, representing a 29% decrease from May 2024.

This reduction extends to encounters at ports of entry as well. Total southwest border irregular encounters—including those who presented without a CBP One appointment—dropped to 88,612 in June 2024, a 30% decrease from the previous month. These consistent declines across various points of entry underscore the efficacy of the new border policy framework.

The demographic breakdown of these encounters adds another layer to this narrative. Unaccompanied children encountered by CBP decreased by 14% compared to May 2024. Single adult encounters saw a 28% decline, while family unit individual encounters fell by a striking 36%. These statistics reflect a broad-based impact across diverse groups attempting irregular entry.

Rescues and Enforcement Measures

In addition to encountering fewer migrants, CBP conducted 461 rescues in June 2024, bringing the fiscal year 2024 total to 4,068 rescues. This highlights the continued efforts by CBP to ensure safety and humanitarian aid amidst stringent border control measures.

Complementing the Presidential Proclamation, the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Attorney General jointly issued an interim final rule (IFR) restricting asylum eligibility for irregular entrants. The rule aligns with the Presidential Proclamation, compounding the restrictive measures to further curb unauthorized entries.

Since these policies came into force, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has removed or returned more than 70,000 individuals to over 170 countries, facilitated through more than 150 international repatriation flights. The U.S. continues robustly enforcing immigration law, adhering to Title 8 authorities. Those without a legal basis to remain in the country face removal, a minimum five-year bar on admission, and potential prosecution if they re-enter without authorization.