The first flight with Trump’s “voluntary departure” program has landed

The “voluntary deportation” initiative implemented by the administration of US President Donald Trump has entered its operational phase. According to information released by the US Department of Homeland Security on Monday, May 19, the first charter flight under the program returned 64 citizens to Honduras and Colombia.

How was it implemented?

The illegal immigrants registered on the CBP Home mobile app and chose to leave the country rather than remain in the United States without documents. They were taken home on a two-stage charter flight from Houston. Those who participated in the flight were given free tickets, $ 1,000 in compensation and the opportunity to return to the United States legally in the future.

What assistance was provided to the returnees?

The 38 people who returned to Honduras were each given $ 100 and food stamps by the local government. They were also promised help finding jobs. It was reported that 26 people who returned to Colombia were provided with social services.

What does the administration say?

According to Homeland Security Secretary Christie Noem, this program should serve as a powerful example for undocumented immigrants. According to her, “Anyone who does not leave voluntarily will face severe measures, such as fines, arrest, deportation, and even being denied permission to return.”

From the editorial staff of Zamin.uz:

This program is being seen as a new way to control illegal migration in the United States. According to economic and social analysts, offering financial incentives to undocumented immigrants for such “voluntary return” is in some sense a win-win situation. But whether this policy will have a widespread effect - time will tell.

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