Palau has reached a significant agreement with the United States to accept 75 individuals who will be deported from the U.S. President Surangel Whipps Jr. has expressed his commitment to this deal, inked late last year, despite concerns raised by several human rights groups.
The president clarified that the deportees are not citizens of Palau, but rather third-country nationals who possess valuable skills and have no criminal backgrounds. The arrangement will provide Palau with $7 million USD, equating to around $93,000 for each individual. These funds are intended to bolster support services, improve infrastructure, and aid in the construction of a new hospital.
While there is some local opposition to this initiative, Whipps noted that the agreement received backing from various community leaders, including chiefs, women’s leaders, and political figures. He addressed concerns about the nature of the deportees, stating, “The idea that we’re getting a band of criminals that will come here and destroy Palau is really unfair. These are good people who want a safe and prosperous life, and I believe that Palau can offer that.”
This decision reflects wider immigration strategies previously implemented by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has advocated for the removal of individuals considered undesirable. Recently, Trump also introduced new visa restrictions on Fiji, Tonga, and Vanuatu, which involve cash bonds for visa applications refundable upon timely departure.
Opponents of these policies, including Pacific human rights advocates, have expressed strong disapproval, raising issues concerning due process and the economic implications for Pacific Islands communities affected by such deportations.
Nonetheless, President Whipps remains optimistic about the potential contributions of these deportees, hoping they will help enrich Palau’s labor force while seeking improved opportunities for themselves. This agreement, while contentious, could open avenues for diversity and economic growth within the country.