The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has voiced serious concerns over the large-scale deportations of non-nationals from the United States. Particular alarm has been raised regarding the transfer of hundreds of individuals—many accused of gang affiliation—to a mega-prison in El Salvador, amid legal challenges and human rights concerns.
Summary of Key Issues:
- Due Process Violations: Many deported individuals were reportedly denied legal representation, not informed of their deportation, and unable to challenge their removal in court.
- Lack of Transparency: No official lists of detainees have been published by either U.S. or Salvadoran authorities, leaving the legal status and whereabouts of deportees unclear.
- Judicial Interventions: The U.S. Supreme Court and lower courts have temporarily suspended deportations under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act, citing concerns over legality and procedural fairness.
- Human Rights Concerns: Reports indicate that deportees were shackled during transit, and rhetoric used against migrants has been described as demeaning.
- Risk of Harm: The UN warns that deportees may face torture or other irreparable harm in their destination countries.
- Impact on Families: Many families feel powerless as their relatives face criminalization without formal judicial proceedings.
The Commissioner praised the role of the U.S. judiciary, legal community, and civil society in safeguarding human rights and called on the U.S. government to ensure legal protections, comply with court rulings, and halt deportations that may lead to human rights violations.
He called on the U.S. government to ensure legal protections, comply with court rulings, and halt removals to countries where individuals face potential human rights violations.
Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Picture on Flickr by UN Geneva Media Team
