Guyana Welcomes First Group of Deportees from the U.S. Under Assisted Voluntary Return Program
Guyana's government announced that it has welcomed the arrival of the first group of deportees from the United States as part of the third-country deportation system. The six individuals, originally from Cuba and Afghanistan, were screened by Guyanese authorities and found to have no criminal records. They were deported from the U.S. primarily due to immigration-related issues. The government, after extensive negotiations, agreed to host the deportees for a year, during which their immigration status will be determined.
The deportees, who are part of the Assisted Voluntary Return Program, will stay in Guyana while awaiting the outcome of their immigration cases. They may eventually return to their home countries or be relocated elsewhere. The United Nations International Organization for Migration is overseeing the program, and the Guyanese government will not be responsible for their housing or support costs. This arrangement does not guarantee permanent resettlement in Guyana.
Guyana, a member of the Caribbean Community, joins other member states like St. Kitts and Nevis, Belize, and St. Lucia in receiving U.S. deportees. The government clarified that this initiative is part of a broader effort to address immigration challenges and provide support to those affected by deportation. The program aims to assist individuals in navigating their immigration status while ensuring their well-being during their stay in Guyana.