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The MIRPS: A Regional Response to Forced Migration in Latin America

Forced migration in Latin America is a phenomenon that is growing at an alarming rate, affecting millions of people fleeing violence, poverty and political repression. Faced with this humanitarian challenge, seven countries in the region have joined forces under the Regional Comprehensive Framework for Protection and Solutions (MIRPS), an initiative inspired by the Global Compact on Refugees.

Since its adoption in 2017 with the San Pedro Sula Declaration, the MIRPS has promoted an approach of shared responsibility to provide protection and solutions to people in situations of forced mobility in Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Mexico and Panama. This mechanism has allowed the implementation of programs that seek the social and economic inclusion of displaced people, guaranteeing access to basic services, education and job opportunities.

In this regard, since its founding, the RIDHE has demonstrated a deep sensitivity to the design of programs on issues of education, humanitarian assistance and the strengthening of democratic civic space that provide lasting and innovative solutions in the context of the States that make up the MIRPS. In addition to its commitment to the protection of displaced persons, RIDHE sees this framework as a key opportunity to promote development, strengthen the visibility of the phenomenon and expand political dialogue around forced migration. With an ambitious vision, the organization seeks to influence the diplomatic environment and contribute to the formulation of regional policies that guarantee a comprehensive and sustainable response to this crisis.

THE ROLE OF COSTA RICA

Costa Rica, recognized for its reception policy and its defense of human rights, assumed the pro tempore presidency of the MIRPS in 2025. Its action plan for 2025 prioritizes education and technical training for refugees as key tools for their integration into society. Among the initiatives promoted, the certification of labor competencies and an innovative project for the recognition of academic qualifications through alternative tests, in collaboration with international organizations, stand out.

Through concrete commitments and the implementation of specific programs developed in each National Plan of the member States, the MIRPS has made significant progress. It should be noted that, in Costa Rica, access to medical care has been provided for more than 8,500 refugees and asylum seekers. Also, among other improvements, free public education has been guaranteed for displaced children and young people in all receiving communities in the country.

Despite the advances, the MIRPS faces significant obstacles. The lack of funding limits the expansion of their programs and instability in the countries of origin continues to push thousands to flee their homes. Therefore, the role of the international community and the commitment of member countries is key to ensuring the sustainability of the initiative.

CIVIL SOCIETY, A KEY ACTOR

Since its creation, the MIRPS has integrated Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) as a key actor to address the situation of forcibly displaced people in the region. Through the CSO Dialogue Mechanism, a space has been formalized that promotes collaboration between governments and civil society, strengthening responses to the challenges of forced displacement and the search for durable solutions.

CSOs play a fundamental role in the MIRPS by providing their expertise in fields such as humanitarian protection, social inclusion and the strengthening of asylum systems. In addition, their participation in the diplomatic space makes it possible to influence substantive political changes based on human rights, generating more robust regional commitments for the protection of refugees. This role is particularly relevant in the context of Nicaraguan human rights defenders, who face persecution and repression due to generalized violence and the political crisis in their country.

The active participation of CSOs and the commitment of MIRPS States set a precedent for other Latin American countries, demonstrating that joint diplomatic space and political dialogue with civil society is key to building sustainable solutions that benefit displaced people and the communities that host them.

At RIDHE, we believe in the importance of supporting this initiative, not only monitoring and documenting its impact, but also collaborating in order to promote inclusive and sustainable policies. The MIRPS is a reminder that, with solidarity and commitment, we can move towards a more just, egalitarian and equitable world.