The mass deportation took place amid growing tensions between Algeria and its southern neighbors, where military juntas have recently replaced elected governments that once supported Algeria.
Earlier this month, Algerian authorities rounded up more than 1,800 migrants and sent them to the border with Niger as part of a record expulsion, according to the human rights group.
The organization Alarmphone Sahara, which monitors migration in the region, reported that the migrants were transported by bus to a remote desert area known as “Point Zero” after being detained in Algerian cities.
Abdu Aziz Chehu, the national coordinator of the group, stated that 1,845 migrants without legal status in Algeria arrived in the border town of Assamakka in Niger after the deportation on April 19. As a result, the total number of deported migrants arriving in Assamakka this month has exceeded 4,000 people. Chehu added that this figure does not include migrants who may attempt to return to Algeria.
The mass deportations are occurring amid deteriorating relations between Algeria and its southern neighbors, where military juntas now hold power after overthrowing the elected governments that had previously supported Algeria.
Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger recalled their ambassadors from Algeria earlier this month in protest over disputes related to border security.
Algeria serves as an important transit point for migrants fleeing poverty, conflict, or climate change on their way to Europe. Many cross the vast Sahara before attempting the perilous journey across the Mediterranean. However, due to increased maritime patrols, more and more migrants are ending up in countries with questionable human rights records and limited humanitarian assistance.
