Costa Rica has joined Panama in detaining U.S. deportees, including minors, at a rural facility near the Panama border. This arrangement follows a deal made by the Trump administration, amidst criticism from human rights advocates. The facility for deportees, which has faced scrutiny for its conditions, is aimed at providing humane treatment while managing voluntary returns of migrants to their home countries.
Costa Rica has recently joined Panama in detaining deportees from the United States en route back to their home countries. A flight containing 135 deportees, including minors, was scheduled to arrive in Costa Rica, where the individuals will be relocated to a rural holding facility near the Panama border. They will remain at this facility for up to 30 days while awaiting their repatriation, with costs covered by the U.S. government.
This arrangement stems from an agreement made by the Trump administration with Costa Rican officials during a recent visit. Costa Rica’s approach follows similar protocols established by other Latin American countries, though the use of third countries for deportation layovers has prompted significant criticism from human rights advocates concerned about the treatment of migrants.
In addition, Honduras acted as a temporary stopover for a U.S. flight carrying Venezuelan deportees. Although this arrangement was described by Honduran officials as a “humanitarian bridge,” it has highlighted broader concerns regarding the handling of deportations and the treatment of asylum seekers during the process.
Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves stated that the country is assisting its “economically powerful brother from the north,” a reference to U.S. pressure on regional nations to facilitate deportations under the threat of sanctions or tariffs. Panama was the first country to accept deportees, currently housing them in police-guarded hotel rooms while they await flights home.
Omer Badilla, Costa Rica’s deputy minister of the interior and police, indicated that the current flight comprises primarily family units, including numerous children. He assured that Costa Rica is committed to human rights and that migrants who refuse to depart voluntarily may be provided with alternative support or refuge arrangements.
Citing ethical standards, Badilla emphasized that migrants will be accompanied by representatives from various humanitarian organizations throughout their detention. The facility designated for this purpose has faced criticism for past conditions, which reportedly included overcrowding and lack of sanitation. Improvements have been noted, yet access has been restricted for media representatives.
The facility will also accommodate returning migrants from South American countries who previously sought asylum in the U.S. Costa Rica has witnessed a steady influx of approximately 50 to 75 migrants daily traveling southward to return to their home countries.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) stated its role does not involve detention but focuses on providing humanitarian assistance and ensuring safe returns for individuals. Their commitment to treating migrants with dignity underscores the importance of adhering to international humanitarian standards.
In summary, Costa Rica’s recent involvement in the detention of deportees from the U.S. aligns it with Panama’s similar actions, raising critical discussions on human rights. With agreements facilitated by the Trump administration, these practices highlight ongoing tensions surrounding the treatment of migrants and asylum seekers. While humanitarian support is promised, concerns remain regarding the conditions and treatment that deportees endure during this process.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
