A new report released by the American Friends Service Committee on March 5 says that U.S. policies of “externalized migration” are accelerating human rights violations and eroding human dignity across Latin America.
The findings highlight the impact of shifting border and migration control to other countries, a practice that has increased under recent U.S. administrations. The report argues that these measures not only discourage migration toward North America but also create barriers for regular entry from other borders, leaving many migrants stranded and vulnerable.
According to the report, more than 2 million foreign nationals left the United States as of Oct. 27, 2025, with about 527,000 forcibly deported and another 1.6 million leaving voluntarily due to fear of expulsion. The data is based on information from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and interviews with hundreds of migrants conducted between June and August 2025 in several countries throughout the region.
Marcia Aguiluz, regional director for Latin America and the Caribbean at AFSC, said presenting the human cost was a key aim: “Behind the statistics, the report — which draws on 364 interviews conducted between June and August 2025 across multiple countries in the region — traces the stories, lived realities and policies which deeply impact millions of people.” Many interviewees cited economic hardship, violence including gang threats and gender-based violence as reasons for leaving their home countries.
The report documents cases of intimidation, threats, humiliation, overcrowding, discrimination and racism during detention or deportation processes—often occurring in U.S. facilities. Of those deported from the United States who were interviewed, some reported being denied access to basic necessities or held in cold rooms known as “ice boxes.” One Venezuelan migrant described being beaten while detained: “When you are a migrant, you are not allowed to speak because they beat you,” he said.
The authors argue that such practices violate international agreements like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and conventions against torture. They call for an end to externalization policies and urge states to comply with international obligations while increasing support for humane migration systems centered on rights and wellbeing.
Looking ahead, the report encourages governments and civil society groups to address root causes of forced migration through inclusive policies that prioritize dignity. It also calls on society at large to counter discriminatory practices by recognizing shared humanity.
