Panama has announced a temporary stay for over 100 undocumented migrants deported by the United States, allowing them humanitarian permits for at least 30 days. The group comprises individuals from various countries who claim asylum due to fears of persecution. Legal representatives express concerns about their long-term safety, while the Panamanian government maintains that no rights violations have occurred.
In a recent development, Panama has decided to extend temporary stays for over 100 undocumented migrants deported by the United States, as announced by Security Minister Frank Ábrego. The migrants, primarily from Asia and the Middle East, will receive humanitarian permits for a minimum of 30 days, potentially extendable to 90 days. These individuals had previously rejected assistance for repatriation from the United Nations and the International Organization for Migration.
The deportees are part of an original group of nearly 300 who were sent to Panama during the Trump administration’s aggressive deportation policies, which relied on the cooperation of Latin American countries. Among the 112 remaining migrants are individuals from Afghanistan, China, Iran, and Russia, many of whom claim they are asylum seekers fleeing violence and persecution.
Currently, many of these individuals are held in a temporary camp situated near the Darien jungle. Attorney Ali Herischi represents Iranian asylum seeker Artemis Ghasemzadeh, along with others who express concerns about signing documents to gain release as the terms remain unclear. Ghasemzadeh, who fled Iran due to fears of persecution, stated, “We are in danger. We are waiting for (a) miracle.”
Legal representatives for the deportees have expressed cautious optimism regarding the government’s decision but have reiterated that those seeking asylum should not face deportation after 90 days. Attorney Silvia Serna Roman highlighted the importance of safeguarding their clients from potential repatriation due to fears of persecution.
Within the group are children and many individuals facing threats based on their religion or identity. Initially confined to a hotel, the migrants were later relocated to a remote camp characterized by challenging conditions, as described by Herischi.
Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has defended the government’s actions, asserting that there has been no violation of the deportees’ rights and denying any mistreatment. He stated, “These organizations are respectful of human rights. It’s false and I deny that we are mistreating them.”
The recent decision by the Panamanian government to grant temporary permits to over 100 deported migrants marks a significant shift in policy amidst ongoing concerns regarding human rights. While attorneys and advocates have welcomed this development, their focus remains on ensuring that these individuals are not forcibly repatriated after the temporary stay. The situation highlights the complexities surrounding asylum seekers who are fleeing violence and persecution in their home countries, necessitating further attention from international organizations.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
