POLICY PAPER

Pathways for Labor Migration from Northern Central America: Five Difficult but Necessary Proposals

Rutas para la migración laboral desde el norte de Centroamérica: cinco propuestas difíciles pero necesarias

by
Michael A. Clemens
November 03, 2022

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Very few labor-based pathways for regular migration are available for people in Northern Central America, often called the “Northern Triangle” of Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. This paper briefly summarizes the state of labor-based migration channels in the region. It then argues that extending those channels is a necessary complement to asylum reform even for the goal of humanitarian protection. It concludes by arguing that five recommendations for long-term reform, though difficult, are needed to unleash the maximum shared benefit of these pathways.

CITATION

A. Clemens, Michael. 2022. Pathways for Labor Migration from Northern Central America: Five Difficult but Necessary Proposals. Center for Global Development.

DISCLAIMER & PERMISSIONS

CGD's publications reflect the views of the authors, drawing on prior research and experience in their areas of expertise. CGD is a nonpartisan, independent organization and does not take institutional positions. You may use and disseminate CGD's publications under these conditions.

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