A Russian family, seeking refuge from political persecution, finds itself stranded in Costa Rica, fighting for compensation and security after being summarily deported from the United States. Their case highlights the ongoing legal and humanitarian fallout from a controversial immigration policy.
The policy, enacted early last year, saw the U.S. deport individuals denied asylum to third countries. Approximately 200 people, including 81 children from various Asian and African nations, were sent to Costa Rica under this arrangement. Among them was a family from Russia: a husband, wife, and their young son.
The family fled Russia after the father, Alexander, reported witnessing electoral irregularities. Fearing reprisal, including potential conscription, they sought asylum in the United States. After securing an appointment via the official system, their hopes were dashed when the appointment was canceled following a change in U.S. administration. Upon presenting themselves at the border, they were detained and subsequently placed on a flight.
“We were discarded like cargo,” Alexander stated, describing the experience. The family was unaware of their destination until they landed in Costa Rica, a country with which they had no connection.
Upon arrival, instead of the safe haven they were promised, they were detained for two months in a migrant center. Conditions were reportedly poor, with the family citing inadequate food, medical care, and psychological distress, particularly for their child.
A ruling from Costa Rica’s constitutional court later found that the government had violated the rights of the detainees, ordering their release and stipulating they were entitled to compensation for their unlawful detention. While released, the family and others report they have yet to receive any compensation, and a lawsuit against the state is ongoing.
Costa Rican immigration authorities have defended their actions, stating the migrants were treated with dignity and that the court’s decision was politically motivated. The policy itself has drawn criticism from international human rights groups and U.S. lawmakers, who question its legality and the pressure placed on receiving nations.
Despite the ordeal, the family is attempting to rebuild their lives. They have been granted temporary humanitarian permits to live and work in Costa Rica and have found community and employment. Yet, the injustice of their deportation remains.
“They deported us unlawfully,” Alexander said. “We were cast aside to a country whose language we don’t speak, and no one has been held accountable.” Their struggle continues as they seek redress for their treatment and a stable future.