Reasons behind firearm-related threats reported by Latin American and Caribbean immigrants entering the USA, 2023. Credit: Injury Prevention (2024). DOI: 10.1136/ip-2024-045369
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Almost half of the migrants crossing into the United States from Latin America and the Caribbean report previously experiencing firearm-related threats or violence in their home country, according to a University of Michigan study.

The research examined the narrative that U.S.-manufactured firearms fuel violence in other countries and in turn contribute to migration. Prior studies have shown that U.S. firearm markets are associated with gun-related violence in Central America and the Caribbean, as well as Mexico and other countries, and that fleeing violence is a main reason people journey to the U.S.

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After analyzing the responses of 321 participants, the survey found that 48% reported previously experiencing gun-related threats and violence, and 34% showed signs of post-traumatic stress disorder. Of those that reported high levels of PTSD symptoms, roughly 27% had a higher prevalence of receiving firearm threats than those with low or no symptoms, according to the study published in Injury Prevention.

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"Further, the prevalence of firearm threats in the region should be considered by policymakers when making policy decisions related to migration because prior research demonstrates that most of the firearms recovered in Mexico and Central America come from the United States."