DistantNews
Support us
🇸🇬 Singapore /Crime & Justice

US deports first migrant to Pacific nation Palau

From The Straits Times · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • The United States has begun deporting migrants to the Pacific island nation of Palau under an agreement.
  • Palau agreed to resettle up to 75 deportees in exchange for $7.5 million, with the first arrival occurring in late May.
  • However, the first deportee left the country after only two weeks, and critics accuse the U.S. of using Palau as a "dumping ground."

The United States has initiated deportations of migrants to Palau, a small island nation in the Pacific, as part of a controversial agreement. The deal, struck in December, allows Palau to resettle up to 75 deportees in exchange for $7.5 million from the U.S. to support public services and infrastructure.

We welcomed our first individual at the airport in late May, brought him to his temporary residence and helped him connect his phone and settle in.

— Palau president’s officeConfirming the arrival of the first deportee under the agreement with the U.S.

Palau's presidential office confirmed the arrival of the first deportee in late May, stating they were provided with temporary housing and assistance. However, the individual reportedly left the country after just two weeks, with details about their departure and destination remaining unclear.

Palau's President Surangel Whipps had previously framed the agreement as mutually beneficial, suggesting it would help both the U.S. and provide a safe haven for individuals needing resettlement. The deal stipulates that deportees must have clean criminal records, and Palau retains veto power over acceptances.

After about two weeks he decided not to remain.

— Whipps’ officeDescribing the departure of the first deportee from Palau.

Despite these assurances, critics, including some lawmakers in Palau's senate, have voiced strong opposition. They accuse the U.S. of exploiting Palau's small population and limited resources, likening the arrangement to using the nation as a "dumping ground" for unwanted migrants. A legal challenge by senators to halt the policy was unsuccessful.

It’s about winning together. We help the United States, we help these nationals that need a place to go that’s safe. And hopefully they can get jobs and be happy in Palau.

— Surangel WhippsDescribing the benefits of the resettlement deal.

A U.S. State Department spokesperson declined to comment on specific diplomatic communications but reiterated the administration's commitment to border security and combating illegal immigration.

Palau’s sovereignty is disrespected at this time. We feel they’re dumping their problems in Palau.

— Hokkons BaulesExpressing criticism of the U.S. deportation policy.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Straits Times. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog