Tonga is facing a significant challenge in dealing with the increasing number of deportees arriving from the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. Reverend Semisi Kava, who serves as the Chaplain for the Tonga Prison Service, has raised alarms regarding the nation’s inadequate preparedness to manage this influx, which is exacerbating social and criminal problems in the kingdom.
According to Rev. Kava, Tonga is anticipating the arrival of 151 deportees from the U.S. soon, but he stresses that the nation is ill-equipped to handle them effectively. “We are struggling with the deportees we already have, and there is no proper system in place to handle them when they arrive,” he stated in an interview.
The rise in deportations is largely attributed to stringent U.S. immigration policies initiated during the Trump administration, including an aggressive approach by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) which has intensified removals. Recent statistics reveal that over 1.4 million noncitizens, including individuals from Tonga, are facing final orders of removal from the U.S.
Complicating matters, Tonga lacks dedicated legislation to manage the reintegration of deportees, leaving them vulnerable and disconnected. Many returnees struggle with job placement, housing, and cultural re-acclimatization, particularly if they arrive without strong familial ties or language proficiency.
Deportee Sione Ngaue shared his personal experiences, highlighting the stigma that deportees face as they return home. “We’re judged before they even get to know us. We have a red ‘X’ against us,” he commented about the challenges of reintegrating into society.
Since 2018, the pace of deportations to Tonga has steadily escalated, including various instances from Australia and New Zealand, which have also contributed to the challenge. Reports indicate that since 2013, approximately 120 individuals were deported from New Zealand, and more recently, 25 were deported from Australia, New Zealand, the U.S., and the Cook Islands.
The ramifications of the lack of a reintegration framework are visible, with rising crime rates and increased drug-related issues attributed partly to the influx of deportees. Tonga has seen a spike in methamphetamine usage, and individuals who struggle to adapt to their home environment are at higher risk of reoffending.
Rev. Kava has called for collective action from all stakeholders to create appropriate support systems and laws to facilitate the successful reintegration of deportees. He pointed out that spiritual programs in Hu’atolitoli prison are offering some hope, helping inmates to find purpose and direction upon their return.
In sum, while the situation is undoubtedly challenging for Tonga, there is potential for positive change. By implementing comprehensive support frameworks for returning citizens, the government can foster a safer environment that aids their reintegration and addresses the underlying issues facing the kingdom. Strengthening community bonds and focusing on rehabilitation can enable the country to turn a challenging situation into an opportunity for growth and healing.
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