On Monday, September 7, 2026, at the opening of a session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, called for a thorough investigation into the 23 migrant deaths that have occurred in US detention since the beginning of 2026 and demanded a halt to deportations to Haiti, warning of the risk of irreparable harm.

Türk made a direct appeal to the US government for a thorough investigation into each death within the immigration system and for accountability. The High Commissioner emphasized that the victims' families have the right to know what happened and to receive clear answers from the authorities.

This appeal follows the UN's tally of 23 migrant deaths in detention in 2026. It goes beyond internal investigations, demanding transparency regarding detention conditions and the decisions made in each case. "There will be accountability for these deaths," Volker Türk declared in Geneva.

The High Commissioner also demanded the immediate suspension of deportations to countries where migrants risk serious harm, explicitly citing Haiti. He stated that any deportation to a third country must be subject to rigorous due process and cannot be carried out if there is a risk of irreparable harm.

"I urge the United States to stop returning people to places where they could suffer irreparable harm, including Haiti, and to ensure that due process is followed for all deportations to third countries."

This warning comes amid heightened tensions surrounding US immigration policy, particularly regarding the treatment of asylum seekers and those seeking international protection. The UN has emphasized that returns must not expose anyone to increased danger.

Türk also questioned the plan to equip Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents with electric shock gloves. He warned that such tools could increase violence and abuses during operations.

His position was presented as a warning against the use of force in the context of migration and as a reminder of States' obligation to prevent abuses. This observation has intensified international pressure on Washington regarding the treatment of detainees and the procedures for deportations to other countries.

HL/ HaitiLibre