US Conducts Third-Country Deportations Despite International Concerns

The United States is conducting third-country deportations, sending migrants convicted of crimes to countries like Mexico, Myanmar, and Yemen, despite international concerns over the legality and safety of these arrangements.

According to UN human rights experts and human rights groups, third-country deportations may violate international law, particularly the non-refoulement principle, which prohibits returning individuals to their country of origin if they would face persecution or harm. These experts warn that even if the destination countries are deemed safe, due process must be followed, including access to legal representation.

Critics argue that the US government is ignoring human rights standards and instead prioritizing convenience and political alliances. Eswatini and South Sudan have been identified as potential destinations for deportees, despite their poor human rights records. In South Sudan, migrants are being detained in facilities with poor conditions, while in Eswatini, prisoners face overcrowding, poor ventilation, and inadequate healthcare.

Some experts suggest that the US may be attempting to use deportation as a means of exerting pressure on foreign governments, potentially through economic coercion or visa restrictions. However, these tactics can have unintended consequences, including human rights abuses and undermining international cooperation.

The lack of transparency surrounding third-country deportations is also alarming, with some deals involving large sums of money, military and security cooperation, in exchange for accepting deported individuals. As the world grapples with the complexities of migration and deportation policies, it is essential to prioritize human rights and the rule of law over political expediency.

Source: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/bbc/E-dey-legal-for-US-to-deport-foreign-criminals-come-Africa-1994224