Seven migrants deported from the US have arrived in Rwanda, the first of 250 expected to be taken in by the African state under a deal reached with President Donald Trump's administration.
The Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo confirmed that the first group of seven vetted migrants arrived in mid-August. She indicated that four of them would remain in Rwanda, while three opted to return to their home countries.
Rights advocates have raised alarms regarding the legality of such deportations, warning that sending individuals to countries where they face potential torture or abuse could violate international law.
Trump's administration has been pursuing an aggressive deportation agenda targeting undocumented migrants since the beginning of his second term.
Makolo stated, Regardless of their specific needs, all of these individuals will receive appropriate support and protection from the Rwandan government. She elaborated that the deportees will be accommodated by an international organization and will be assessed by the International Organization on Migration (IOM) and Rwandan social services.
Rwanda, having experienced its own displacement crises historically, claims it can offer a safe haven to migrants, despite ongoing criticism of its human rights practices. The nation has also previously coordinated with international bodies to assist refugees in various contexts.
It remains unclear whether there are any financial arrangements associated with this new deportation deal with the US. Concerns linger not only about the treatment of the migrants but also about the broader implications for international refugee laws as more countries agree to take in deported individuals from the United States.
