US appear to have begun deporting migrants to South Sudan: Attorneys

In a significant development on May 20, 2025, immigration attorneys reported that the United States government has initiated deportations of migrants to South Sudan, potentially breaching existing court orders. These actions have raised serious legal and humanitarian concerns

According to court filings, up to a dozen individuals from countries including Myanmar and Vietnam were reportedly deported to South Sudan without the opportunity to contest their removal. This move appears to contravene a federal judge’s prior ruling that mandates migrants be given a “meaningful opportunity” to challenge deportations to third countries. 

U.S. District Judge Brian E. Murphy, who issued the original injunction, expressed strong concerns during an emergency hearing. He indicated that these deportations might constitute criminal contempt of court and ordered the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to retain custody of the affected individuals. The judge emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, instructing DHS to provide detailed information about the deportations and the current status of the migrants. 

South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, has experienced ongoing conflict and instability since its independence in 2011. The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for the country, citing risks of crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict. Human rights organizations have documented widespread abuses, including arbitrary killings and torture, raising concerns about the safety of deported individuals.

This incident is part of a broader pattern of the Trump administration’s efforts to deport migrants to third countries, often without their consent or adequate legal processes. Previous reports have highlighted similar issues, including deportations to countries like El Salvador and Panama, sometimes under controversial legal frameworks. 

Legal experts and human rights advocates are closely monitoring the situation, urging the U.S. government to adhere to international standards and ensure that deportations are conducted lawfully and with respect for human rights. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for U.S. immigration policy and the treatment of migrants in the coming years.

As the legal proceedings continue, the international community watches closely, highlighting the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of vulnerable populations.