The Caribbean nations of Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda have agreed to accept asylum seekers who entered the United States illegally. This decision was announced on January 5, 2025, in response to ongoing discussions regarding international migration and humanitarian assistance.
Agreement Details and Context
During a news conference, Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit revealed that Dominica has reached an “internal agreement” with the United States. This agreement will facilitate the deportation of individuals who cannot be returned to their home countries due to safety concerns. Skerrit emphasized the importance of collaboration between the two nations on matters of mutual interest.
Discussions between Dominica and the United States have intensified following a proclamation by former President Donald Trump on December 16, 2025, which imposed partial entry restrictions on citizens from certain nations. The internal agreement aims to address the challenges posed by irregular migration while ensuring that individuals in vulnerable situations receive the necessary support.
Humanitarian Implications
This agreement signifies a commitment from both nations to address the complex issue of asylum seekers. By providing a safe haven for third-country nationals, Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda are stepping up to play a crucial role in the humanitarian response to global migration challenges.
Prime Minister Skerrit highlighted that Dominica has been engaged in continuous dialogue with the United States regarding various concerns, and this agreement marks a pivotal point in their collaborative efforts. The discussions have not only focused on migration but also encompass broader areas of economic cooperation and mutual aid.
The decision to accept asylum seekers from the United States reflects both nations’ willingness to participate in a global humanitarian framework, recognizing the pressing needs of individuals fleeing violence and instability in their home countries. As the situation continues to evolve, the impact of this agreement will be closely monitored by both local and international observers.
As Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda move forward with this initiative, it remains to be seen how this agreement will influence their bilateral relations with the United States and the broader Caribbean region. The commitment to accept asylum seekers highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing humanitarian crises.
