Monteverde Quakers urge Costa Rica government to ensure transparency and human rights for U.S. deported migrants

The Association of Friends of Monteverde, a Quaker community in Costa Rica, has called on the government to ensure transparency and uphold human rights for migrants deported from the United States. The group expressed concern over the humanitarian situation of those recently brought to the country under a controversial agreement signed in February between President Rodrigo Chaves Robles and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

In a public statement, the Quakers emphasized Costa Rica’s historical recognition as a model of respect for human rights and international law. They urged the government to align its actions with these principles, particularly for migrants from conflict zones or countries with records of persecution. The community highlighted the need for the government to provide clear information about the treatment of these individuals and to ensure their dignity and rights are protected.

The Quakers noted that the process of handling deported migrants has been shrouded in secrecy, with limited access to key information about the conditions at the Temporary Care Centre for Migrants (CATEM-South) in Corridors, Puntarenas. The press has been denied entry to the facility, raising concerns about the lack of oversight and accountability.

The main issues of concern include whether migrants have recovered their identity documents, received adequate medical and psychological care, and have access to legal advice to seek refuge or other international protection. These questions remain unanswered, leaving many in a legal and humanitarian limbo.

Two groups of nearly 200 migrants deported by the U.S. government have arrived in Costa Rica. Reports from the Office of the Ombudsman indicate that some individuals were unaware of their destination or the country they had landed in, which the entity described as a serious violation of their human rights.

The Monteverde Quakers have requested that the government provide detailed information about the conditions in which these migrants remain and address several key unanswered questions. They hope that each person will one day be able to share their experience of Costa Rica as a place where their rights were respected and where they received support on their journey to a peaceful home.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)