Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has announced plans to deport thousands of migrants without legal residence permits, primarily targeting Venezuelans, as part of a broader effort to reform the nation’s immigration policies and reduce crime, according to an article by the Associated Press [1]. De la Espriella, who assumed office three weeks prior to the announcement, stated that the national immigration service will conduct raids in collaboration with Colombian police, initially focusing on migrants involved in criminal activities, followed by those residing without regular status [1].

The president, described as ultra-conservative and aligned with former U.S. President Donald Trump, emphasized his commitment to this policy in a video released on his X account, asserting that “I will not accept any illegal immigrants, wherever they come from. They will have to leave and be deported. It is a political decision I am taking responsibility for” [1]. This stance represents a significant shift for Colombia, which has historically sought to protect and provide pathways to permanent residency for Venezuelan migrants fleeing economic and political turmoil in their home country [1].

Critics, including representatives from organizations aiding Venezuelan migrants, have expressed concern over the potential impact of these measures. Ana Karina García, director of Juntos Se Puede, argued that the government should expand legal residency pathways rather than penalize individuals unable to obtain permits, citing evidence that migrants do not commit crimes at higher rates than the local population [1]. Additionally, Arles Pereda, president of an association representing Venezuelans in Bogotá, voiced worry about the closing of opportunities for new waves of Venezuelan migrants displaced by recent natural disasters, noting a broader trend of tightening immigration policies across several Latin American countries [1].

References: [1] Associated Press. (2023, September 17). Colombian president orders immigration raids, vows deportations of migrants without legal status. Yahoo News. https://www.yahoo.com/news/world/articles/colombian-president-orders-immigration-raids-230531032.html

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