Unexpected Surge in Deportation Flights to Guatemala: A 40% Increase

Typewriter with "Deportation Order" typed on paper.

Guatemala agrees to boost deportation flights from the US by 40%, accepting non-citizens and expanding its repatriation capabilities.

Key Takeaways

Guatemala will increase the number of deportation flights it receives from the US by 40%
The agreement includes accepting non-citizens deported from the US
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio secured the deal during his Central America tour
The US plans to offer financial support to Guatemala for repatriating non-citizens
Approximately 66,000 people were deported from the US to Guatemala in 2024

Guatemala Expands Deportation Agreement with US

In a significant policy shift, Guatemala has agreed to increase the number of deportation flights it receives from the United States by 40%. This decision, announced by Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo, comes after productive discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The agreement marks a crucial step in addressing migration concerns between the two nations.

The expanded agreement not only increases the frequency of flights but also allows Guatemala to accept non-citizens deported from the US. This development is part of a broader strategy to manage migration flows and enhance border security. President Arevalo emphasized the importance of this collaboration in tackling transnational crime and promoting a more comprehensive approach to migration stating “We have agreed to increase by 40 percent the number of flights of deportees both of our nationality as well as deportees from other nationalities” .

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In a significant move following Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit, Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo has agreed to accept migrants from other… pic.twitter.com/TXIIJN5Ije

— Bienvenido (@bienvenido_us) February 5, 2025

US Support and Regional Impact

To facilitate this arrangement, the United States has pledged financial support to Guatemala. These funds will assist in the repatriation of non-citizens to their home countries, easing the logistical and economic burden on Guatemala. The agreement is seen as a significant win for the current US administration’s immigration policies.

The agreement with Guatemala is part of a broader regional effort. El Salvador has a similar arrangement, accepting deportees of various nationalities, including American citizens and legal residents imprisoned for violent crimes. However, this aspect of the policy has raised legal questions regarding the deportation of US citizens to other countries.

Addressing Migration Challenges

The increased deportation flights are expected to have a significant impact on migration patterns. In 2024, approximately 66,000 people were deported from the US to Guatemala. With the 40% increase in flights, this number is likely to rise substantially. The agreement aims to address challenges in US immigration enforcement while also focusing on the root causes of migration.

President Arevalo has called for a new migration model that is both humanitarian and comprehensive. Guatemala plans to implement a “return-home plan” to support dignified migration. This approach aims to balance the need for border security with the humane treatment of migrants.

Regional Implications and Future Outlook

Secretary Rubio’s visit to Guatemala is part of a larger Central American tour, which includes stops in Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic. The focus on immigration during these visits underscores the importance of regional cooperation in addressing migration issues. The agreements with Guatemala and El Salvador are expected to serve as models for future arrangements with other countries in the region.

As the implementation of this agreement moves forward, binational working groups will discuss the details of the increased deportation flights. The success of this policy will likely depend on Guatemala’s ability to manage the influx of deportees and the US’s commitment to providing necessary support. The agreement represents a significant shift in regional migration management and could set a precedent for future international cooperation on this complex issue.