Mexique : « La Bestia » | ARTE Reportage

The Journey of Migrants on La Bestia

Introduction to the Migrant Experience

• The narrative begins with a focus on Freycy, a clandestine migrant from Honduras, who has attempted to reach the United States multiple times. This is his seventh attempt using the dangerous train known as "La Bestia" .

• La Bestia is described as a perilous journey, likened to "the devil," emphasizing its dangers and the high stakes involved in crossing borders for migrants seeking better opportunities .

The Challenges of Crossing Borders

• Each year, hundreds of thousands of Central Americans travel on La Bestia, which is primarily a freight train transporting goods but serves as a direct route for migrants heading north towards the U.S. border. It is noted as both the most direct and most dangerous means of transit through Mexico .

• Upon reaching the U.S. border, migrants face multiple barriers that complicate their journey. Freycy describes these obstacles vividly, highlighting how they can feel insurmountable and frustrating for those pursuing their dreams of migration .

The Group's Journey Begins

• A group of six migrants embarks on an arduous trek over 2500 km from Honduras to the U.S., starting at a small rail yard in southern Mexico. They have been traveling together for two weeks and must remain anonymous for safety reasons during their journey .

• The group consists of individuals with varying experiences: some are seasoned travelers while others are embarking on this journey for the first time. Their motivations range from family reunification to economic necessity [].

Preparing for Departure

• As they wait by the tracks, anxiety builds among them about boarding La Bestia due to its unpredictable schedule and inherent dangers. They must be ready to act quickly when it arrives [].

• There’s an emphasis on overcoming fear; one member expresses concern about climbing onto a moving train but acknowledges that fear can be managed with determination [].

The Reality of Traveling on La Bestia

• After several days waiting, they finally board La Bestia amidst sacrifices made by each individual in pursuit of work and sustenance for their families back home [].

• Unfortunately, not all members make it onto the train; one friend is left behind due to timing issues during departure [].

Dangers Along the Journey

• As they travel slowly through challenging terrain (never exceeding 30 km/h), they must remain vigilant against potential accidents caused by branches or sudden stops [].

• The threat posed by armed gangs targeting migrants adds another layer of danger; unity among travelers becomes crucial for survival against criminal elements that exploit vulnerable individuals [].

Survival Tactics During Transit

• With extreme heat affecting them physically, there’s an urgent need to find food and water while navigating through dense jungle areas where resources are scarce [].

• One member suggests eating leaves if necessary to survive until they can find proper nourishment or hydration; this highlights their resilience amid dire circumstances [].

Train Journey and the Plight of Migrants

The Start of a Difficult Journey

• After 12 hours on the road, the train pauses to change conductors, highlighting the long and arduous journey ahead.

• Octavio Basselis becomes a witness to the struggles faced by migrants, noting that many endure days in harsh conditions, with tragic incidents occurring among vulnerable individuals.

The Role of Local Women: Las Patronas

• In Veracruz, one of Mexico's poorest states, local women known as "Las Patronas" take action to support migrants.

• These mothers have formed a network to prepare food for travelers on "La Bestia," showing compassion amidst the ongoing crisis.

• They distribute essential supplies like corn tortillas and rice while ensuring that no one remains indifferent to the suffering at their doorstep.

Personal Stories of Struggle

• One woman shares her emotional connection as a mother of four, expressing how it pains her to see others suffer.

• For 18 years, these women have helped strangers they meet only briefly during their journeys.

Harrowing Experiences on the Train

• A group of three migrants recount their escape from immigration authorities after losing two friends during their journey.

• They highlight that each year around 100,000 migrants are expelled from Mexico due to strict immigration policies largely funded by U.S. authorities.

The Reality of Migration Challenges

• Migrants express extreme fatigue and hunger while longing for communication with family back home.

Transitioning Trains: New Hurdles Ahead

• As they reach northern Mexico, they must switch trains again; this new train is faster but poses its own challenges for those nearing the U.S. border.

Dreams vs. Dangers

• Sompopo dreams of finding work in construction in the U.S., yet he feels increasingly distant from his young daughter left behind in Honduras.

Threatening Conditions Near the Border

• Approaching the border brings dangers such as cartels seeking to exploit or kidnap migrants for ransom.

Unexpected Setbacks in Desolate Areas

• The train unexpectedly stops in a remote desert area near Chihuahua; fear sets in as they realize they may be stranded without help.

Facing Harsh Realities: The Desert Crossing

• Many migrants perish attempting to cross this treacherous desert terrain due to anti-migration policies transforming it into a deadly zone.

Survival Against All Odds

• Despite numerous risks and losses along their journey, some manage to reunite with family members after enduring five days crossing through perilous conditions.

Reflections on Successes and Failures

• While some succeed in reaching safety and employment opportunities abroad, others return home defeated but hopeful for future attempts.