Costa Rica has begun detaining deportees from the U.S., following a similar action by Panama. A flight carrying 135 deportees was scheduled to arrive, with individuals held for up to 30 days before being repatriated. The arrangement, part of a deal with the Trump administration, raises human rights concerns despite Costa Rica’s assurances of ethical treatment. Honduras also made headlines by facilitating the return of Venezuelans.
Costa Rica has joined Panama in detaining deportees from the United States as part of a broader effort amidst increasing deportations directed by the Trump administration. Recently, a flight with 135 deportees, including 65 minors from various nations, was scheduled to land in Costa Rica. Upon arrival, these individuals will be transferred to a rural holding facility near the Panama border where they may stay for up to 30 days before being returned to their home countries, with costs covered by the U.S. government.
This agreement is the result of negotiations between the Trump administration and Costa Rica, following U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit. Similar arrangements are in place with other Latin American countries; however, the use of third countries for deportations has sparked criticism from human rights advocates who are concerned about the conditions of detention and the rights of asylum seekers.
Honduras has also participated in this initiative, acting as a stopover for a deportation flight carrying Venezuelans from the U.S. A flight carrying 170 Venezuelans landed at a military base in Honduras before their transfer back to Venezuela, described by Honduras as a “humanitarian bridge” due to the lack of direct flights between the two nations.
The Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves underscored the collaboration, stating that it assists the nation’s “economically powerful brother from the north” amid pressures from Trump to facilitate deportations, often coupled with threats of tariffs or sanctions. Earlier this week, Panama accepted 299 deportees, with many being held in hotels guarded by police until their flights home.
Costa Rica’s Deputy Minister of the Interior, Omer Badilla, emphasized that if deportees do not wish to return voluntarily, the country is prepared to provide them with refuge or facilitate their travel to another country through the UN’s International Organization for Migration (IOM). He also stated that Costa Rica adheres to its ethical commitment to ensuring deportees are returned safely.
During their detention, migrants will be monitored by officials from U.N. agencies and the Red Cross to safeguard their rights. The holding facility, previously a factory, has faced scrutiny regarding its conditions, with reports of overcrowding and inadequate sanitation. While the facility’s conditions have reportedly improved, access for journalists has been restricted.
The facility will also cater to migrants returning from the U.S. who now wish to go home to Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador, reflecting a broader pattern of migration. The IOM has clarified its role, indicating that it provides humanitarian support but does not participate directly in the restriction of movement of individuals, ensuring treatment according to international standards.
In summary, Costa Rica’s collaboration with the United States in detaining deportees represents a significant shift in migration policy, following similar steps by Panama. The arrangement raises numerous concerns regarding the treatment of individuals awaiting repatriation, particularly regarding the rights of asylum seekers. Both Costa Rica and Honduras have taken proactive roles in managing this complex situation while navigating international criticism and the broader implications for regional stability.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
