Palau leaders discuss U.S. request to host aslyum seekers

The United States is asking Palau to host third-country nationals who are currently in the United States seeking asylum. President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. brought the request to the nation’s Congress, Olbiil Era Kelulau, on July 19 during a leadership meeting.

According to a letter from Whipps to the OEK requesting the meeting, the draft under discussion “is far from final and is subject to further discussion.”

The president added, “Before moving forward in any way, I want to hear your views and those of the Council of Chiefs. This is an important issue with both legal and policy implications. I hope we can come together to talk it through carefully.”

U.S. Ambassador to Palau Joel Ehrendreich joined the meeting for the first half to answer questions from senators, delegates, and members of the Council of Chiefs, according to the Office of the President.

A press release said the draft agreement from the United States would give Palau full discretion to decide whether to accept any individuals. During the meeting, Palau’s leaders reiterated their long-standing partnership with the United States. OEK leaders and chiefs said more information is needed before any decision is made.

The draft agreement under discussion requires both parties to develop operational guidelines, commit to resolving disputes diplomatically, and allow for written amendments. The agreement, which would take effect upon signature, could be ended or suspended with written notice. Its implementation depends on available resources and funding from both parties.

During the leadership meeting, OEK raised many questions, some of which could not be answered with the specificity requested. Ehrendreich said he would reach out to Washington, D.C., to obtain more information.

This is not a first for the region. Guam has hosted Vietnamese refugees and Kurdish refugees. During the Vietnam War, Guam served as a major transit point for Vietnamese evacuees, particularly during Operation New Life. Later, in 1996, Guam also hosted a significant number of Kurdish refugees. In 2021, Gov. Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero also said Guam would host Afghan refugees if needed. mbj