Panama allows 112 migrants deported by the U.S. to stay for at least 30 days under humanitarian permits. The group, consisting mainly of asylum seekers from Asia and the Middle East, has declined repatriation support. Lawyers emphasize the need for protection to avoid deportation after 90 days, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding their treatment and safety.
Panama’s Security Minister Frank Ábrego announced that over 112 undocumented migrants deported by the United States will receive temporary humanitarian permits allowing them to remain in the country for at least 30 days, potentially extending to 90 days. The individuals, primarily from Asia and the Middle East, refused repatriation assistance offered by the United Nations and the International Organization for Migration.
This group includes asylum seekers claiming to flee violence or persecution in their countries. The breakdown of the 112 migrants shows nine from Afghanistan, 12 from China, 24 from Iran, and two from Russia. The deportees are currently housed in a makeshift camp near the Darien jungle.
Attorney Ali Herischi, representing Iranian asylum seeker Artemis Ghasemzadeh and others, reported that the asylum seekers hesitate to sign any agreements regarding their release due to uncertainties surrounding the terms. Ghasemzadeh expressed fear for her safety if forced to return to Iran, emphasizing a dire need for a resolution: “We are in danger. We are waiting for (a) miracle.”
A group of lawyers advocating for the deportees has welcomed Panama’s decision, stressing the need for protection for asylum seekers once the 90-day humanitarian period ends. Attorney Silvia Serna Roman remarked on the government’s commitment to not deport their clients and addressing conditions of arbitrary detention.
The detainees include several children and individuals with valid fears of persecution based on religious beliefs or gender identity. These migrants were initially confined to a hotel but were later moved to a camp described by Herischi as difficult, lacking basic necessities.
Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has denied accusations of human rights violations during the deportation and confinement process, stating that the authorities respect human rights, calling the allegations false.
In summary, Panama has granted temporary humanitarian permits for deported migrants from the U.S., allowing them to remain for at least 30 days. The situation highlights the ongoing concerns regarding the treatment of asylum seekers fleeing persecution. Legal representatives stress the need for lasting solutions to ensure the safety of these vulnerable individuals, while the government maintains that it upholds human rights during the deportation process.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
