Panama Grants Temporary Stay to U.S. Deported Migrants Amid Humanitarian Concerns

Panama has allowed 112 undocumented migrants deported by the U.S. to remain for at least 30 days under temporary humanitarian permits. This group consists mainly of asylum seekers from Asia and the Middle East, many of whom fear persecution. Legal advocates have welcomed the decision but stress the need for continued protections against repatriation.

Panama has extended a temporary reprieve to 112 undocumented migrants deported by the United States, allowing them to remain in the nation for a minimum of 30 days. This announcement was made by Security Minister Frank Ábrego, who indicated that these individuals could potentially receive humanitarian permits lasting up to 90 days. Notably, this group includes individuals from various Asian and Middle Eastern countries, who declined assistance from the United Nations or the International Organization for Migration regarding repatriation.

Among the deportees are asylum seekers, with some fleeing violence and persecution in their native countries. Specifically, the 112 individuals include nine from Afghanistan, 12 from China, 24 from Iran, and two from Russia, according to Minister Ábrego. Many of the migrants are currently located at a makeshift camp near the Darien jungle, following their initial detention after being deported from the U.S.

Attorney Ali Herischi, representing some of the deportees, noted that they are hesitant to sign release paperwork due to the ambiguous terms surrounding their situation. One client, Artemis Ghasemzadeh, expressed significant fear of returning to Iran where she believes her life is at risk following her conversion to Christianity. She remarked, “We are in danger. We are waiting for (a) miracle.”

A group of lawyers advocating for the deportees expressed cautious optimism regarding Panama’s decision. They underscored their ongoing concerns about the potential for asylum seekers to be repatriated after the 90-day extension ends. Silvia Serna Roman, an attorney in the case, commented on the government’s commitment to refrain from further deportations and to alleviate arbitrary detention.

The lawyers reiterated the pressing issue affecting many migrants, including children, who face serious threats of persecution based on religion or sexual and gender identity. Initially, the migrants were housed in a hotel in Panama City before being relocated to a remote camp, which has garnered criticism for its challenging living conditions including a lack of adequate medical care and internet access.

Despite the expressed concerns regarding the treatment of the deportees, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has rejected claims of human rights violations, asserting that the government’s actions reflect a commitment to upholding human rights in the handling of these individuals. He unequivocally denied allegations of mistreatment, stating, “These organizations are respectful of human rights. It’s false and I deny that we are mistreating them.”

In summary, Panama’s decision to allow 112 deported migrants to remain for an additional 30 days highlights ongoing humanitarian concerns related to asylum seekers facing persecution. Legal representatives are advocating for their rights while cautioning against potential repatriation after the designated period. The living conditions reported by the migrants further underscore the need for improved treatment of individuals in such vulnerable positions, while the Panamanian government maintains its stance on respecting human rights.

Original Source: www.waow.com