Summary
The U.S. government introduced a program offering incentives for undocumented immigrants to voluntarily leave the country, aiming to reduce deportation costs. The initiative increased the incentive to $3,000 before the end of the year. Meanwhile, the number of deaths in ICE custody reached its highest level since 2004.
Key Facts
- The U.S. government launched an incentive program to encourage undocumented immigrants to self-deport using the CBP Home App.
- The incentive for voluntary departure was increased to $3,000 plus a one-way ticket home.
- The government claims this approach reduces deportation costs by about 70%.
- In 2025, approximately 622,000 removals have occurred.
- Recently, there were four deaths in ICE custody in just four days, raising the total to at least 30 for the year.
- The government denies an increase in death rates, stating that current rates are consistent with the past decade.
- Advocacy groups criticize the program, suggesting it may mislead immigrants and go against current laws.
- The U.N. reports that the U.S.–Mexico border is one of the deadliest migration routes, with a high death toll outside detention centers.
