Panama has recently released dozens of migrants, previously detained after being deported from the United States, amid mounting human rights criticisms. These individuals now have 30 days to exit the country, confronting uncertainty about their futures. For many, including 29-year-old Afghan refugee Hayatullah Omagh, the situation is dire. With no funds or support, he expressed, “We are refugees. We do not have money. We cannot pay for a hotel in Panama City, we do not have relatives.”
Omagh fled Afghanistan in 2022 post-Taliban takeover and fears persecution if made to return. He voices desperation, stating, “I can’t go back to Afghanistan under any circumstances … They want to kill me. How can I go back?” Though officials mention a possible 60-day extension for their stay, uncertainty still looms for many deportees.
Approximately 65 migrants from various countries, including China and Russia, endured weeks in substandard conditions within Panama’s detention camps. Human rights advocates were ready at the bus terminal to offer support and resources. Nikita Gaponov, a Russian national and LGBTQ+ refugee, lamented, “Once I get off the bus, I’ll be sleeping on the ground tonight,” highlighting the dire state of newly released migrants.
The deportation of these individuals was facilitated by a controversial agreement involving the Trump administration, Panama, and Costa Rica designed to hasten removals. Critics argue this exports the US deportation regime to Central America, as illustrated by distress signals from migrants seeking help in Panama City hotels.
Life in detention was perilous, with reports of inadequate sustenance and harsh treatment by authorities. Omagh relayed that a fellow detainee, from China, undertook a hunger strike, while another protest against confiscated property faced violent suppression. Despite such harrowing accounts, media access to camps remained restricted by officials. Some international aid organisations have proposed assistance to migrants wishing to relocate; however, the Panamanian government contends that most did not wish to accept help.
Omagh claims to have sought asylum in Panama, only to be rebuffed: “We do not accept asylum.” Panama’s Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Ruiz-Hernandez indicated that the vast majority of these individuals are unwilling to remain in Panama, setting their sights on the US. An anonymous Chinese migrant echoed this sentiment, wishing to pursue her American dream despite the obstacles ahead: “I still want to continue to go to the United States and fulfil my American dream.”
Dozens of migrants recently released from detention in Panama are facing an uncertain future after being deported from the US. Many lack resources and support, with some, like Afghan refugee Hayatullah Omagh, fearing for their lives if sent back to their home countries. The detainees endured harsh conditions, drawing attention to human rights issues. A controversial US-Panama agreement underpins these deportations, and while some aid has been offered, many migrants express a desire to travel to the US.
In conclusion, the situation for released migrants in Panama is fraught with uncertainty and despair. Many face daunting challenges with no resources or options, as they are caught between the aftermath of deportation and a pressing desire to seek asylum elsewhere, particularly in the US. The troubling conditions in the detention camps and the controversial agreements underpinning these deportations raise important human rights concerns that warrant global attention and action.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
