Panama has granted a 30-day temporary stay to over 112 undocumented migrants deported by the U.S., allowing for the possibility of extension. This group, primarily from Asia and the Middle East, includes asylum seekers fleeing violence. Legal representatives express concern over the migrants’ uncertain future and lack of safety upon possible repatriation. President Mulino defends the government’s actions, denying any rights violations.
Panama has announced a temporary reprieve for over 112 undocumented migrants deported by the United States, allowing them to remain in the country for at least 30 days, according to Security Minister Frank Ábrego. This group, primarily consisting of individuals from Asia and the Middle East, will receive humanitarian permits that could extend up to 90 days. These migrants had previously declined repatriation assistance from the United Nations and the International Organization for Migration.
This group of migrants was part of an initial cohort of nearly 300 deported to Panama during the Trump administration’s deportation efforts, which involved soliciting cooperation from Latin American countries. The remaining 112 individuals include nine Afghans, 12 Chinese, 24 Iranians, and two Russians, many of whom are seeking asylum due to fears of violence or persecution in their home countries. They have been held in a makeshift camp near the Darien jungle, described as harsh and lacking necessary amenities.
Attorney Ali Herischi, representing several Iranian asylum seekers, indicated that his clients remain apprehensive about signing release documents due to unclear terms. One of his clients, Artemis Ghasemzadeh, who fled Iran after converting to Christianity, expressed her fear of returning home due to the risk of persecution. Her text messages to CNN emphasized their precarious situation: “We are in danger. We are waiting for (a) miracle.”
Legal representatives for the deportees, who had previously initiated a lawsuit against Panama in the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, expressed cautious optimism regarding the recent decision. Attorney Silvia Serna Roman stated, “Today, in the context of our pending lawsuit, the Panamanian government has changed course – they have made a commitment not to deport our clients and to release them from incommunicado and arbitrary detention.”
The statement also stressed concerns regarding the lack of a sustainable solution for those who cannot safely return to their countries due to persecution based on religion or sexual and gender identity. The deportees endured harsh conditions while confined in a remote camp after previously being housed in a hotel in Panama City. President José Raúl Mulino has refuted claims of rights violations against the deportees, asserting that Panamanian authorities respect human rights and denying any mistreatment.
The decision by Panama to extend temporary permits for the 112 migrants deported by the United States marks a significant development amidst ongoing concerns about their safety. With many of these individuals fearing persecution, the response from legal representatives highlights the need for a comprehensive solution beyond the temporary reprieve. As the situation evolves, the emphasis on protecting human rights remains paramount.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
