Conditions for Deported Migrants in Costa Rica Raise Concerns
Deported individuals from the United States share their challenging experiences while seeking refuge in Costa Rica.
A Russian migrant recently deported from the United States has described the dire circumstances faced by her and other migrants at the Temporary Migrant Care Center (CATEM) in Corredores, Costa Rica.
In a conversation that highlighted their plight, she expressed significant fears for her safety if she were to return to Russia, where she claims to have faced threats and persecution.
The migrant, who requested anonymity, reported a range of difficulties encountered during her month-long stay in Costa Rica.
While appreciative of the respectful treatment received from local authorities, she detailed the struggles her family has faced, particularly concerning health issues among her children.
The migrant noted that her children have been experiencing stomach pains and diarrhea, attributing their illnesses to the diet provided, which primarily consists of rice, a staple they are unaccustomed to.
Within the CATEM, the lack of access to personal documentation has compounded the family's frustrations.
The migrant highlighted that their passports and legal papers are held by the authorities, which has resulted in a sense of helplessness regarding their situation.
Additionally, she mentioned the exclusion from educational opportunities for their children and the lack of basic amenities, such as Wi-Fi.
Another migrant, originally from Georgia, recounted similar health concerns, revealing that both she and her partner have experienced medical issues, including an ear infection.
Despite receiving medical attention, the treatment has not alleviated their discomfort.
The persistent heat in the region has also led to allergies among the children.
This Georgian migrant expressed a fear of returning to her home country, noting political instability following recent elections and ensuing violence in public demonstrations.
She stated that her family fled Georgia and arrived in the United States in February, where they were detained before being flown to Costa Rica without prior notice.
Costa Rican authorities are aware of the migrants' challenges.
Omer Badilla, the Deputy Minister of Governance and Director of Migration, indicated that the government has been attempting to provide solutions.
According to Badilla, among the 200 individuals deported from the United States, 84 have voluntarily returned to their countries, while others are still deliberating their options, which include returning home, seeking transfer to a third country, or applying for asylum within Costa Rica.
Reports indicate that six migrants escaped from CATEM in a single night, raising concerns about safety and protocol enforcement.
Migration authorities are currently monitoring those who left without their personal documents under their custody, issuing alerts for their potential return to the center.
The situation continues to evolve as migrants navigate their precarious circumstances.
In a conversation that highlighted their plight, she expressed significant fears for her safety if she were to return to Russia, where she claims to have faced threats and persecution.
The migrant, who requested anonymity, reported a range of difficulties encountered during her month-long stay in Costa Rica.
While appreciative of the respectful treatment received from local authorities, she detailed the struggles her family has faced, particularly concerning health issues among her children.
The migrant noted that her children have been experiencing stomach pains and diarrhea, attributing their illnesses to the diet provided, which primarily consists of rice, a staple they are unaccustomed to.
Within the CATEM, the lack of access to personal documentation has compounded the family's frustrations.
The migrant highlighted that their passports and legal papers are held by the authorities, which has resulted in a sense of helplessness regarding their situation.
Additionally, she mentioned the exclusion from educational opportunities for their children and the lack of basic amenities, such as Wi-Fi.
Another migrant, originally from Georgia, recounted similar health concerns, revealing that both she and her partner have experienced medical issues, including an ear infection.
Despite receiving medical attention, the treatment has not alleviated their discomfort.
The persistent heat in the region has also led to allergies among the children.
This Georgian migrant expressed a fear of returning to her home country, noting political instability following recent elections and ensuing violence in public demonstrations.
She stated that her family fled Georgia and arrived in the United States in February, where they were detained before being flown to Costa Rica without prior notice.
Costa Rican authorities are aware of the migrants' challenges.
Omer Badilla, the Deputy Minister of Governance and Director of Migration, indicated that the government has been attempting to provide solutions.
According to Badilla, among the 200 individuals deported from the United States, 84 have voluntarily returned to their countries, while others are still deliberating their options, which include returning home, seeking transfer to a third country, or applying for asylum within Costa Rica.
Reports indicate that six migrants escaped from CATEM in a single night, raising concerns about safety and protocol enforcement.
Migration authorities are currently monitoring those who left without their personal documents under their custody, issuing alerts for their potential return to the center.
The situation continues to evolve as migrants navigate their precarious circumstances.
