Migrants and human rights under threat
Migration is an inalienable human right. The degrading treatment of deported migrants by the Donald Trump administration not only violates fundamental rights, but also challenges basic principles of human dignity recognized globally.
Just days into his second term, Donald Trump has implemented a series of immigration measures that are generating concern in Latin America and around the world. These policies include mass deportations, military deployment on the border with Mexico, and a discourse laden with stigmatization of migrants, labeling them as “criminals” and “threats.” These recent actions demonstrate a pattern of dehumanization that is severely impacting entire communities.
Reports from Brazil and Colombia
The Brazilian government, led by Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, expressed outrage after a deportation flight from the United States arrived carrying 88 Brazilians subjected to inhumane conditions. According to official reports, the passengers arrived bound hand and foot, without access to drinking water or basic sanitation. Some reported extreme temperatures and fainting spells due to the aircraft's malfunctioning air conditioning.
“Respect for human rights is a pillar of our democratic state. We will not tolerate degrading treatment of our citizens,” emphasized Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira after meeting with local authorities in Manaus to coordinate a formal response to the U.S. government.
For his part, Colombian President Gustavo Petro rejected the arrival of two military planes carrying deported migrants. “A migrant is not a criminal and must be treated with dignity. Colombia will receive our citizens on civilian planes, without handcuffs or chains. Our country demands respect,” Petro stated in a press release shared on social media.
Both governments agree in condemning the use of tactics that equate migrants with criminals, demanding that deportations be carried out humanely and in accordance with international treaties that protect migrants.
The Latin American Council of Social Sciences (CLACSO) reaffirms that migration and mobility are a human right that must be guaranteed by states, under principles of respect, solidarity, and non-discrimination. The actions of the Trump administration constitute a flagrant violation of international human rights conventions.
In times of crisis, Latin America's collective leadership is crucial to raising its voice against these injustices and defending migrants. CLACSO calls on the international community to demand an immediate halt to mass deportation policies and a genuine commitment to human dignity.
Migration is not a crime. It is a human right.
