Palau Senate Blocks US Deportee Relocation Deal, Proposes Referendum

Palau's Senate has voted to block a deal that would allow the relocation of deportees from the United States to the Pacific island nation. The agreement, signed by President Surangel Whipps Jr. in December, permits up to 75 third-country migrants facing removal from the US to live and work in Palau.

The Proposed Agreement

The arrangement is part of a broader assistance package for Palau. This includes $2 million designated for security initiatives and an additional $7.5 million specifically tied to the resettlement of these individuals.

The deal will now be considered by Palau's lower house, with the final decision resting with President Whipps Jr.

Senate Opposition and Call for Referendum

In January, the Senate moved to block the resettlement deal and proposed a public referendum. This referendum would ask Palauans if the country should accept non-Palauan individuals removed from the US. While non-binding, lawmakers stated it would "serve as guidance to the national government."

Senators cited Palau's geographic size, infrastructure, and resource constraints as reasons the country is "not suited to serve as a country of deportation, relocation or resettlement."

They also noted that Palau is not a signatory to the 1951 UN Refugee Convention.

Differing Views: President vs. Traditional Leaders

President Whipps Jr. has stated that the deal offers "a lawful, humane solution that respects our people, our laws, and our limited capacity." He affirmed that Palau would review each individual "on a case‑by‑case basis," focusing on those whose skills could address workforce gaps.

However, the deal has encountered significant opposition from Palau's traditional leaders. The Council of Chiefs, representing 16 tribal chiefs, expressed surprise at the signed memorandum of understanding.

The Council of Chiefs warned that accepting deportees could undermine the country's social cohesion and cultural values, communicating that Palau was "not ready, willing, and prepared to venture into this new area of responsibility."

Broader Context and Supporting Voices

Senator Rukebai Inabo, one of three lawmakers who supported the deal, described it as "mutually beneficial" for both Palau and the US, providing options for deportees. She also supported a referendum to gauge public opinion.

This agreement is part of a broader Trump administration policy to transfer migrants from the US to third countries, a policy that has received criticism from migration lawyers and human rights organizations.