Trump-Era Deportations to Eswatini Reach 29 Migrants

On July 8, 2026, eleven additional migrants deported by the Trump administration under its “third-country” policy arrived in Eswatini from the United States. The arrivals raise the total number of individuals transferred to the southern African nation to 29, according to U.S. immigration lawyer Alma David, who confirmed the arrivals via text message to Reuters.

Reuters

The transfers are carried out under a $5.1 million agreement negotiated during the Trump administration that permits the United States to relocate migrants to third countries in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The policy has been used repeatedly since its inception, with Eswatini serving as one of several destination states.

Reuters

Lawyers representing the original deportees sent to Eswatini last year argue that the agreement violates the rights of migrants who have already completed criminal sentences in the United States. They contend that the detainees remain incarcerated at Eswatini’s Matsapha correctional facility despite having served their U.S. terms. Of the 29 deportees, only two have been released and repatriated—one to Jamaica and another to Cambodia—while the remainder remain in custody.

Reuters

An Eswatini government spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment at the time of reporting. Alma David, acting as a liaison with local prison sources, provided the latest information on the arrivals and the status of the detainees.

Reuters

Critics of the policy highlight the humanitarian and legal ramifications of sending individuals to facilities described as “notorious,” emphasizing the lack of transparency and the limited repatriation outcomes. The continued use of the agreement raises questions about the United States’ obligations to ensure that deported migrants are not subjected to indefinite detention after completing their sentences.

Reuters