Guatemala plays a significant role in the mixed movements in Central America, serving as a country of origin, transit, destination, and return location for asylum-seekers, refugees, returnees, and migrants. These populations have distinct needs and backgrounds, including survivors of trafficking, victims of gender-based violence, unaccompanied or separated children, and LGBTIQ individuals. While traditionally, flows originated from Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua, the country experienced a significant increase in Venezuelans and Haitians in the last years. Additionally, many Guatemalans face numerous risks within their country, including insecurity, violence, and a lack of sustainable livelihoods. As a result, many of them are compelled to seek international protection. Nevertheless, despite these challenges, the number of Guatemalans forced returned has steadily risen each year, exacerbating their vulnerabilities and exposing them to further dangers.

To address the needs of people in mixed movements and identify those with international protection needs, UNHCR has established six field offices located in critical transit points as they share borders with Mexico, Honduras, and El Salvador. Furthermore, UNHCR collaborates closely with the government and civil society organizations to ensure access to territory, documentation, protection referral mechanisms, international protection solutions, basic services, and urgent needs for refugees, asylum-seekers, and Guatemalans at risk. Additionally, UNHCR and its partners operate in five Migrant and Refugee Assistance Centres (CAPMiRs) to cover entry and exit borders and transit routes and reinforce the national response to people in mixed movements by identifying persons with international protection needs and providing solutions.