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Human Rights Watch challenges US removals to third countries in Africa

Human Rights Watch challenged US deportations to African countries where those removed have no citizenship, alleging abuse and risks of forced return to danger. Its new investigation draws on interviews in six countries and US transfer data. The Department of Homeland Security defended the policy as a public-safety measure, saying receiving governments provide diplomatic assurances about treatment after arrival.

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Investigation follows people sent to third countries

Human Rights Watch, an international human rights organisation, challenged US removals to African countries where deportees are not citizens. Its October 8 investigation alleged abuse and pressure to return to places where people face danger. The organisation argues that the practice violates human rights law.[1], [2]

Researchers interviewed 24 people in Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eswatini and South Sudan. Citing US data, the group said more than 500 people had been transferred to Africa through such arrangements since Donald Trump returned to office in 2025.[1]

Interviewees describe restraints and missing medicines

Some people described about eighteen hours in chains, insufficient food and water, and a lack of essential medicines. Human Rights Watch alleged arbitrary detention in several receiving countries. It also said at least twelve LGBT people had been sent to states that criminalise same-sex relationships, including refugees granted US protection because they faced persecution related to sexual orientation or gender identity.[1]

US cites assurances from receiving governments

The US Department of Homeland Security defended third-country removals on public-safety grounds. It said receiving governments give diplomatic assurances and responsibility ends when people leave immigration custody. The White House said the policy covers people whose home countries refuse to take them back or whose return is barred by court orders. Eswatini said three people it had received had recently left voluntarily.[1]

References

  1. News sourceBBCHRW challenges US third-country deportations to Africa↩1↩2↩3↩4
  2. News sourceHuman Rights WatchHuman Rights Watch challenges US removals to third countries in Africa↩
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