US Deportation Deals Raise Concerns Across Latin American Borders

US President Donald Trump's administration has struck deals with several Latin American countries to manage deportation flows. Concerns grow over the use of 'handshake deals' and potential violations of international protections for migrants and asylum-seekers, as shocked deportees confront challenging conditions upon return.

In a bid to manage migration flows, the Trump administration has struck agreements with several Latin American nations to serve as stopover points for deported migrants. These deals with Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Panama aim to reverse the current migration trend.

Concerns are rising about these largely undisclosed agreements, believed to be 'handshake deals' that could skirt international refugee protections. Researchers and advocates warn of potential violations and highlight the challenging conditions faced by deportees in detention.

The agreements appear more varied and ambitious than those in Trump's first presidency, suggesting a shift in strategy to control migration at the US border. While the deportation numbers remain low, the visual impact of shackled migrants arriving in Central America is significant.