The small Central American nation of Belize has signed an agreement with Washington to act as a 'safe third country' for migrants as they seek asylum in the United States. Belize PM John Antonio Briceño stated that this deal, pending approval from the Belize Senate, will allow migrants deported from the US to apply for asylum rather than being returned to their home countries. The US State Department hailed it as 'an important milestone in ending illegal immigration' and 'shutting down abuse' of the US asylum system, likening it to a previous agreement with Paraguay.
This year, other nations such as Panama, Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Honduras have also accommodated individuals deported by the US. However, the initiative has drawn sharp criticism from human rights advocates, who argue that it places migrants at risk by sending them to potentially unsafe conditions in foreign countries. Belize's foreign affairs ministry stated that the agreement includes strict security measures. PM Briceño mentioned that the program would be akin to a job program, inviting qualified individuals from Central America to contribute to Belize's economy, though opposition leaders voiced concerns about potential impacts on national security and increased taxpayer burdens.
As detailed aspects of the agreement remain undisclosed, experts observe this bilateral relation as part of broader US efforts under President Trump to address immigration issues, including a recent Supreme Court ruling that facilitates deportation practices to countries other than the migrants' nations of origin.
This year, other nations such as Panama, Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Honduras have also accommodated individuals deported by the US. However, the initiative has drawn sharp criticism from human rights advocates, who argue that it places migrants at risk by sending them to potentially unsafe conditions in foreign countries. Belize's foreign affairs ministry stated that the agreement includes strict security measures. PM Briceño mentioned that the program would be akin to a job program, inviting qualified individuals from Central America to contribute to Belize's economy, though opposition leaders voiced concerns about potential impacts on national security and increased taxpayer burdens.
As detailed aspects of the agreement remain undisclosed, experts observe this bilateral relation as part of broader US efforts under President Trump to address immigration issues, including a recent Supreme Court ruling that facilitates deportation practices to countries other than the migrants' nations of origin.
