A U.S. military aircraft landed at Toussaint Louverture International Airport on June 17, 2025, carrying approximately 20 Haitian nationals who were deported from the United States.
These deportations are part of the U.S. government’s immigration enforcement policies, which primarily target individuals with criminal records.
According to preliminary information, the repatriated individuals were allegedly involved in criminal cases while in the United States. Although details of the charges have not yet been made public, the operation falls under existing bilateral agreements on the return of foreign nationals.
While not a new occurrence, this type of deportation poses a significant challenge for Haiti. Many of those deported have lived in the United States for years—some for most of their lives. Returning to a country plagued by insecurity, economic instability, and weakened institutions is often a traumatic experience.
Upon arrival, the deportees are handed over to Haitian immigration authorities. However, due to a lack of adequate infrastructure, many receive no lasting support—neither social nor psychological.
Another group of around 60 Haitian nationals is also expected to arrive in the coming days through Cap-Haïtien International Airport, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Human rights organizations have called for a comprehensive reform of Haiti’s reception system and for improved support services for newly returned migrants—many of whom left the country as very young children. These groups are also urging the Haitian government to step up diplomatic efforts to ensure more humane conditions for deported nationals.
