Panama will allow 112 migrants deported by the U.S. to stay for at least 30 days with possible extensions. The group includes asylum seekers from various countries who fear persecution. Legal representatives emphasize the need for a long-term resolution, while the Panamanian government defends its actions regarding the treatment of these individuals.
Panama has decided to grant temporary residency to 112 migrants deported by the United States for a minimum of 30 days. According to Security Minister Frank Ábrego, these undocumented immigrants, primarily from Asia and the Middle East, will receive humanitarian permits, which may be extended for up to 90 days. Notably, they declined assistance from the United Nations and the International Organization for Migration for repatriation.
These migrants were part of a larger group of nearly 300 deportees subjected to a mass deportation effort by the Trump administration. Reports indicate that many within this group are asylum seekers fleeing violence or persecution. The 112 deportees include individuals from Afghanistan, China, Iran, and Russia, with a significant number residing in a makeshift camp near the Darien jungle.
Attorney Ali Herischi, representing several migrants, conveyed that the individuals remain hesitant to sign release documents due to ambiguities regarding their conditions of release. One of his clients, an Iranian asylum seeker named Artemis Ghasemzadeh, expressed fears of persecution if returned to her home country, emphasizing her perilous situation with, “We are in danger. We are waiting for (a) miracle.”
A group of lawyers has expressed cautious optimism regarding the Panamanian government’s decision. Silvia Serna Roman, a co-counsel in a lawsuit against Panama, acknowledged the government’s commitment to refrain from deportation and release the migrants from arbitrary detention. However, she also noted that there is a pressing need for a long-term solution for clients unable to return home.
Among the deportees are families, including children, many at risk of persecution due to their religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Their treatment in custody has been criticized, with reports of inadequate living conditions. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has, however, defended the actions of the government, stating, “It’s false and I deny that we are mistreating them.”
Panama’s recent decision to grant temporary humanitarian permits to 112 deported migrants highlights a critical issue regarding the treatment of asylum seekers. While the migrants are granted a reprieve from immediate deportation, legal representatives advocate for a more permanent resolution to address the threats these individuals face in their home countries. Future actions and policies by the Panamanian government will be crucial in determining the fate of these vulnerable individuals.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
