Death cases are increasing in migrant detention centers under the control of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
According to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, 18 people died in these centers in the first five months of 2026. Another death was recorded in June. For comparison, 33 deaths were officially recorded in 2025, and 11 in 2024.
Volker Türk called for independent and impartial investigations into all deaths in ICE detention facilities. He emphasized that the relatives of the deceased have the right to know the truth and demand justice.
According to the UN, more than 60,000 migrants are currently detained in ICE centers. Among them are families with children and those with serious illnesses. It is noted that detention conditions in some centers are not up to standard, and there are problems with providing medical care and food.
Also, five of the deaths recorded in 2026 have been classified as suicides. The UN reiterated that migrant detention should only be a last resort.
