The Route: China to America

Chinese asylum seekers are entering the US via a dangerous route through Latin America seeking new lives. This year, thousands have already made the trip known as “zouxian” or “the walking route.” Many cite a host of reasons for leaving China, from economic uncertainty and Beijing’s harsh COVID-19 policies to human rights. To get to America from China, they must go through nine countries. There are no roads, the terrain is unforgiving, and migrants regularly fall victim to criminal gangs. Reaching the United States has long been the dream. Thousands of Chinese have embarked on the dangerous route this year. But reaching their destination is no guarantee that their troubles will be over.