GistReel
Not fewer than 20 migrants have been deported to Liberia from the United States under a controversial agreement that could see the West African nation accept as many as 1,200 people.
The first group landed at Roberts International Airport near Monrovia on Thursday, marking the latest development in the Trump administration’s efforts to expand deportations to third countries.
Who will be sent to Liberia?
The agreement covers people from several regions, including African countries, North America, South America and the Caribbean.
Liberian Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah confirmed that the 1,200 deportees would not be limited to African nationals.
Justice Minister Natu Oswald Tweh previously said most of those being transferred had violated immigration laws or committed migration-related offences.
However, he said those arriving in Liberia would have the opportunity to apply for asylum if they wanted to remain in the country.
The Liberia deal is part of a broader US strategy involving countries willing to accept migrants who are not their nationals.
According to advocates, the Trump administration has negotiated similar arrangements with nearly two dozen countries, including several in Africa.
Lawyers raise concerns
Immigration lawyers and rights advocates have questioned the legality and humanitarian impact of sending migrants to countries where they may have no previous connection.
They argue that third-country deportations could create a pathway for the US to remove asylum seekers indirectly.
Some deportees may also face pressure to return to their countries of origin, even when they originally left because of security concerns or other risks.
The Liberia arrangement is therefore expected to remain under close scrutiny as more deportees are transferred under the agreement.