The small Central American nation of Belize has signed an agreement to become a "safe third country" to the USA, both countries announced on Monday. The idea is to increase the number of deportations from the USA and deter migration.
The agreement is similar to previous agreements that the USA has entered into with countries such as Paraguay and Guatemala, where asylum seekers would instead seek protection in these countries before reaching the USA.
Trump's previous policy with similar agreements was heavily criticized and withdrawn by the Biden administration.
Belize states that the country retains the right to refuse transfers, set a limit on the number of applicants and conduct security checks. No one who is deemed to pose a threat to public safety is allowed to enter.
Opposition politicians in Belize condemn the agreement, warning that it may undermine the country's sovereignty and imply economic burdens.
"Belize must not become a dumping ground for people that other countries refuse to accept," writes opposition leader Tracy Taegar Panton on X.
