Migration Diplomacy: US strategies with Mexico and its influence on Central America

Abstract

Migration Diplomacy, a complex interplay of strategies and discourse, shapes the interactions between nations and profoundly impacts migration dynamics. This thesis investigates how the United States employs Migration Diplomacy with Mexico, particularly focusing on the contrasting approaches of the Trump and Biden administrations. Drawing from neorealism's framework, which underscores the interplay between domestic politics and international relations, this study examines the strategies and language used by leaders to manage migration flows. The analysis, conducted through comparative methodology and discourse analysis using NVivo software, delves into the policies and speeches of former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden, revealing shifts from coercion to cooperation. Trump's discourse centered on border security, negative portrayals of migrants, and nationalist rhetoric, culminating in coercive measures aimed at Mexico. In contrast, Biden's discourse emphasized multilateral partnerships, addressing root causes, and inclusive language towards migrants. This shift towards cooperation resulted in strategies that collaboratively tackled migration challenges. By revealing the interplay between discourse and diplomatic approaches, this study sheds light on how leaders' rhetoric influences...