**Title: UN Rights Chief Calls for Investigation into Migrant Deaths in US Detention Centers**
**Date: June 26, 2026**
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has urged for an independent investigation into the alarming rise in deaths occurring in migrant detention centers in the United States. This call comes in light of recent statistics indicating that at least 19 individuals have died in these facilities so far this year, a significant increase compared to previous years.
In a statement released on June 26, Turk expressed his deep concern regarding the lack of transparency surrounding these deaths. He emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “Those responsible for violations of the law must be held to account, and the rights of the victims’ families to truth, justice and reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence must be upheld.”
The surge in fatalities has been linked to what various rights groups and immigration advocates describe as systemic neglect and inhumane conditions within the detention centers. The Trump administration, during its second term, has been noted for its aggressive expansion of the immigrant detention system, which includes facilities operated by private contractors. This expansion is part of a broader strategy aimed at mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.
Recent reports highlight that the mortality rate of individuals in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody has reached its highest level in over a decade. According to a report from Human Rights Watch, the death rate has more than doubled since the beginning of Trump’s second term. The report indicates that the mortality rate is nearly four times that of the Biden administration and more than two and a half times higher than during Trump’s first term.
Among the deceased is Mamuka Artmeladze, a Georgian national who died on June 4 in a Louisiana detention facility. His death marked the 19th fatality of the year, compared to 33 deaths recorded in 2025 and 11 in 2024. The report from Human Rights Watch noted that the 52 individuals who died in detention during Trump’s second term came from a diverse array of 20 different nationalities and ranged in age from 19 to 75.
Turk's statement also addressed concerning allegations regarding the use of force within these facilities. He pointed out that five of the deaths recorded in 2026 were classified as suicides, raising alarms about the mental health conditions of detainees. He further highlighted the reported use of solitary confinement, which is known to increase the risk of suicide and is regarded by the UN as a form of torture after a period of 15 days.
The UN rights chief's call for an investigation aligns with growing public scrutiny and criticism of ICE and the conditions within migrant detention centers. Advocacy groups have been vocal about the need for reform, pointing to the deteriorating conditions and the treatment of detainees.
In response to the criticisms, former President Trump defended his administration's record on immigration enforcement, asserting on social media that his administration had achieved the "Highest Average Daily Arrest Rate by ICE and CBP, including Total Detention, with Final Orders of Removal, than any other president, by far!"
As the situation continues to develop, the call for an independent investigation into the deaths in migrant detention centers highlights the urgent need for accountability and reform within the U.S. immigration system. The implications of these findings may lead to increased pressure on the current administration and lawmakers to address the conditions faced by migrants in detention and to ensure their rights are protected.