Uganda Clarifies Position on Deportation Deal with US Amid Growing Debate

Strategic Insights -

Uganda's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement clarifying the country's position on reports of a deportation deal with the United States, confirming the existence of a framework agreement but emphasizing its temporary and conditional nature. The agreement, aimed at reducing asylum claims in the US, focuses on third-country nationals who may be denied asylum in the US but cannot safely return to their countries of origin. Ugandan authorities stress that the deal is not a blanket deportation arrangement, with specific conditions and exceptions, including the exclusion of individuals with criminal records and unaccompanied minors.

Key Takeaways:

  • The agreement between Uganda and the US is a temporary and conditional cooperation agreement focusing on third-country nationals who may be denied asylum in the US but cannot safely return to their countries of origin.
  • The deal only applies to certain categories of asylum seekers, with specific conditions and exceptions, including the exclusion of individuals with criminal records and unaccompanied minors.
  • Uganda prefers that individuals from African countries be transferred to Uganda under the agreement.
  • The two parties are working out the detailed modalities on how the agreement shall be implemented.
  • The clarification comes amid growing debate in both Kampala and Washington over Trump's policy of expanding 'third-country agreements' to reduce asylum claims in the US.
  • South Sudan, Rwanda, and Eswatini have publicly acknowledged similar arrangements.
  • Uganda hosts more than 1.5 million refugees, one of the world's largest refugee populations.

Statistics:

  • 1.5 million: the number of refugees hosted by Uganda (from South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and other neighboring states)
  • 13: the number of deportees described as dangerous criminals flown to South Sudan and Eswatini last month

Sources:

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uganda
  • "Uganda clarifies deportation deal plans with US" ( Associated Press)
  • " Uganda, US agree deal to host deportees" (Reuters)
  • "South Sudan, Rwanda and Eswatini publicly acknowledge similar arrangements" (BBC News)
  • "Uganda hosts 1.5 million refugees, one of the world's largest refugee populations" (UNHCR)