Guatemala is considering accepting deportees from the United States who are nationals of other Central American countries, according to sources familiar with discussions aimed at fostering favorable relations with President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. A Guatemalan official emphasized the need for a regional approach and expressed Guatemala’s willingness to be constructive.
The U.S., facing difficulties in deporting immigrants from countries like Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Haiti, is engaging with Central American governments to gauge their readiness to accept nationals from third countries. The prospect of increased deportations aligns with Trump’s pledge to remove a substantial number of immigrants living in the U.S. illegally. Mexico and the Bahamas have indicated their reluctance to receive such deportees.
Guatemala, already receiving multiple deportation flights weekly under President Joe Biden, anticipates a rise in these numbers and is preparing to reintegrate its citizens. The country’s leadership aims to capitalize on the skills these individuals acquired in the U.S., particularly in sectors like construction and services, and intends to leverage their English proficiency.
Guatemala’s President Bernard Arevalo has held preliminary discussions with U.S. officials and influential organizations, such as the Heritage Foundation, about migration issues, remittances, and the geopolitical dynamics involving China and Taiwan. These interactions signal Guatemala’s intent to manage potential challenges posed by the expected surge in deportations and the economic implications of decreased remittances.
Honduras, following suit, has also engaged in dialogue with U.S. representatives and is preparing for an increased flow of deportees. Officials underscore the significance of addressing root causes of migration, such as violence and economic instability, to mitigate the impact of the anticipated deportation policy changes under the Trump administration.
