Key facts
- Jamaica is in talks with the U.S. to accept third-country migrants deported from the U.S.
- The deal is structured as a memorandum of understanding, emphasizing human rights.
- Jamaica would serve as a transit country, receiving up to 25 migrants bi-weekly.
- No more than 10 migrants would be hosted in Jamaica at any given time.
- The U.S. will cover all associated costs, and individuals with criminal records will be excluded.
Jamaica is in discussions with Washington over a potential agreement to accept third-country migrants deported by the United States, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Security Minister Horace Chang. The proposed arrangement is a memorandum of understanding, not a binding agreement, and emphasizes respect for human rights.
Under the terms being discussed, Jamaica would function as a transit country, receiving up to 25 individuals every two weeks. The number of migrants hosted in Jamaica at any given time would not exceed 10, as the country would facilitate their travel to another nation or their home country. The U.S. State Department has indicated it would cover all associated costs and related arrangements. Individuals with criminal backgrounds will not be accepted under this deal.