U.S. immigration detention facilities are grappling with severe overcrowding and inadequate living conditions, according to firsthand accounts and government data. The Biden administration reported a record 890 migrant deaths along the border in fiscal year 2022 – a 58% surge from 2021 – highlighting systemic challenges in border management.
Nicaraguan migrant Alvin Sevilla described his experience to CGTN in a recent interview, revealing a Texas facility designed for 80-100 detainees held nearly 600 people. \"We waited days for medical attention,\" Sevilla said. \"Showers were nonexistent – they gave us bottled water and baby wipes instead.\"
Key concerns identified:
- Over 500% overcapacity in some facilities
- No access to showers or proper sanitation
- Delayed medical treatment for detainees
Human rights organizations have repeatedly flagged these conditions, with Amnesty International noting a 72% increase in detention-related complaints since 2020. As migration patterns evolve post-pandemic, advocates call for urgent policy reforms to address humanitarian needs while maintaining border security.
Reference(s):
No showers and healthcare in U.S. immigration detention center
cgtn.com
