Twenty migrants deported from the United States have arrived in Liberia, marking the beginning of a new agreement that could see up to 1,200 people transferred to the West African country.

The deportees arrived at Roberts International Airport near Monrovia on Thursday as part of a broader immigration policy under US President Donald Trump that involves sending some migrants to third countries rather than directly to their countries of origin.

Liberian authorities said those arriving under the agreement could include nationals from Africa, North and South America, and the Caribbean.

The arrangement has raised concerns among immigration lawyers and advocacy groups, who fear that transferring migrants to countries with which they have no previous connection could weaken existing legal protections, particularly for asylum-seekers. They argue that such deportations could expose migrants to uncertainty and make it more difficult for them to access appropriate protection.

Liberian authorities, however, said the deportees would have options after arriving in the country. Justice Minister Natu Oswald Tweh said those who wish to remain in Liberia could apply for asylum, while those who do not want to stay would be allowed to leave.

— AFRICANEWS.COM