This chapter situates African migration through Mexico within the broader history and politics of refugee protection in Latin America. The region has long presented itself as a pioneer of progressive frameworks, from the Cartagena Declaration’s expanded refugee definition to national laws aligning with international human rights norms. Nevertheless, Mexico exemplifies the contradictions between aspiration and practice: while asylum applications have soared in recent years, weak institutions, limited resources, and the securitization of migration undermine meaningful protection. The chapter examines Mexico’s dual role as transit and destination country, highlighting how shifting U.S. policies, enforcement practices, and international agreements shape migrants’ experiences. It also traces the emergence of African migration flows into the Americas, facilitated by changing visa regimes, visa-flexible regional hubs like Ecuador and Brazil, and dangerous journeys across the Darién Gap. Through these dynamics, African migrants often encounter ambiguous legal statuses, racism, and precarious access to rights, while civil society and international organizations fill critical gaps in protection. By evidencing these structural tensions, the chapter underscores how Mexico’s position within global migration governance illuminates both the possibilities and limits of humanitarian protection in practice.