A group of families and children from various countries, including Uzbekistan, China, Afghanistan, and Russia, arrived in Costa Rica's capital on Thursday as part of the first flight of deportees from other nations. This flight, consisting of 135 deportees, half of whom are minors, marks Costa Rica's entry into a growing trend of Latin American nations serving as stopovers for migrants as the U.S. seeks to increase deportations.
Costa Rica, along with Panama, is holding deportees of primarily Asian origin until their repatriation can be arranged or they can seek protection elsewhere. In a similar vein, Honduras facilitated the transfer of deportees between the U.S. and Venezuela from a flight originating from Guantanamo Bay.
The deportees arriving in Costa Rica will be transported to a rural holding facility near the Panama border, where they will be detained for up to six weeks before being flown back to their countries of origin. The U.S. government will cover the associated costs.
This arrangement stems from a deal struck between the Trump administration and Costa Rica during a recent visit by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. President Rodrigo Chaves emphasized that Costa Rica is assisting its 'economically powerful brother from the north.'
While similar agreements have been reached with other Latin American nations, the practice of using third countries as deportation layovers has faced criticism from human rights advocates. Concerns include the conditions of detention in Costa Rica, the protection of asylum seekers, and the screening processes for deportees before their return.
Costa Rica has taken steps to ensure the rights of the deportees by involving entities such as the U.N., the Red Cross, and other aid-focused government bodies. The country has pledged to guarantee the safe return of deportees to their home countries or facilitate travel to alternative destinations if needed.
The facility where migrants are being held has been subject to criticism in the past for its conditions. Despite improvements, access for journalists has been restricted. Additionally, the facility will process a 'reverse flow' of migrants from Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador who previously sought asylum in the U.S. and now wish to return home.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is providing humanitarian support and assisting with voluntary returns and identifying safe alternatives for migrants. Costa Rica remains committed to upholding human rights and ensuring the well-being of all individuals under its care.
