A Global Hidden Crisis

In light of recent increases in ICE arrests, it's crucial to recognize the existence of sexual abuse allegations in immigration detention facilities. Last month, the New York Times reported that the number of people in immigration detention was at an all-time high of over 60,000. According to Time, immigration detentions have risen by over 25 percent since January 2025.

As detention rates increase, the potential for abuse also increases. We must work towards stronger oversight and accountability measures to protect those in detention, some of whom are already among society’s most vulnerable populations.

This article explores the hidden crisis of sexual abuse in immigration retention centers –  an issue that is significantly underreported despite official documentation of it being widespread. While this focuses on abuses in U.S. immigration centers, this is a worldwide issue.

Research on migrants and refugees in Europe shows alarming rates of sexual violence, and similar patterns of abuse in detention settings have been documented across multiple countries where people seek international protection. The vulnerability that comes with displacement, language barriers, and dependence on institutional care creates similar risks for abuse regardless of location.

Current Data of Sexual Abuse in Detention Centers

Since 2007, nearly 200 sexual abuse allegations have been documented in U.S. detention centers. 

More recently, an investigation by Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff’s office uncovered an even broader pattern of harm: 510 reports of human rights abuse in immigration custody, including 41 cases of physical and sexual abuse, 18 alleged reports of mistreatment of children, and 14 credible reports of mistreatment toward pregnant woman.

Furthermore, the ACLU has documented that California, Texas, and Arizona each account for 16 or more sexual abuse allegations since 2007. Ossoff’s investigation also revealed significant patterns of sexual abuse within detention centers in George.

Keep in mind that these official governmental reports only represent what we can see above the surface. As survivors and advocates know all too well, the true scope of abuse is likely far greater. 

Underreporting is significant, as many face barriers, such as language differences, unfamiliarity with reporting systems, and cultural isolation. Some, unfortunately, might be so accustomed to the abuse, that the very idea of filing a report may seem like wasted effort.  

Vulnerability of Migrants in Detention Centers

Those in immigration detention centers have already survived long and traumatic journeys. They’ve left behind everything that was familiar to them – their homes, communities, and sometimes even their own families. They’ve done all of this to seek safety and hope in a new place.

Before even reaching immigration centers, many refugees have already suffered insurmountable loss. They could be fleeing persecution, violence, or life-threatening conditions. They’ve lost the protection of their homeland and many live in consistent fear for their own survival.

This existing trauma makes people in detention vulnerable to abuse and mistreatment. Inside these facilities, they have very little control over their daily lives, making them more dependent on staff. A power imbalance is automatically created and this brings in devastating consequences for exploitation and abuse.

The physical and psychological wounds of migrants’ journeys are carried into the detention centers with them. However, instead of receiving compassionate, trauma-informed care, many face inadequate mental health support.

Additionally, there is a lack of oversight and accountability inside many detention centers, allowing abuse and mistreatment to continue. Minority groups specifically face disproportionate discrimination and harsher treatment inside the facilities. For example, transgender migrants represent about 1 in 500 people in immigration detention, but account for 1 in 5 sexual assault complaints. 

Sexual Abuse Policies in Detention Centers

On paper, there are standards in place to protect immigrants at detention centers. The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) was established in 2003 to address and eliminate sexual abuse and harassment in U.S. facilities. Its core policies include:

• Establishing a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual abuse.

• Creating national standards to guide facilities in preventing, detecting, and responding to incidents of sexual abuse.

• Requiring facilities to conduct risk assessments to identify those vulnerable to abuse.

• Mandating staff training on prevention to sexual abuse.

• Ensuring confidential ways for those in detainment to report sexual abuse.

While this all sounds good in practice, there are parts about PREA that are problematic, particularly for immigrants. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has excluded immigration detention centers from the full protections of PREA. The standards are covered under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), but there are documented oversight failures by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency.

ICE is a big topic in today’s society. According to the American Immigration Council, ICE rarely imposes financial penalties or other consequences on their workers, despite the large number of complaints and harm to immigrants in the facilities. It’s even been documented that ICE issues waivers that exempt some facilities from complying with PREA standards.

Furthermore, medical and mental health care is consistently inadequate in immigration centers. Lack of access to specialists, insufficient medical checks, and incorrect diagnoses lead to devastating consequences inside the facilities. There have even been reports of incomplete death investigations, destruction of evidence, and failure to interview key witnesses.

Impact of Sexual Abuse Beyond Detention Walls

Abuse in immigration detention and holding centers has lasting effects. The DOJ’s exclusion of PREA sends a message that immigrates are less worthy of protection from sexual abuse. This message can spread to outside communities and workplaces, creating a culture where immigrant survivors face additional barriers to being believed, supported, and protected.

Ultimately, the cultural and political climate has much influence over immigration enforcement and detention policies. When those in power speak ill of those coming to a new country, using dehumanizing language and portraying immigrants as threats rather than human beings, it creates environments where abuse becomes both more prevalent and more hidden. 

Systemic Problems Require Systemic Fixes

It’s clear that policy changes must be made to address abuse in detention centers. First and foremost, PREA standards should be mandated across all immigration detention centers, including independent oversights, timely investigations, and victim protections.

More specifically, reforms to immigration enforcement include:

• Mandatory transparency: ICE and private contractors must publicly report all sexual abuse and misconduct incidents to ensure accountability.

• Trauma-informed healthcare: Comprehensive medical and mental health services should be provided, including specialized gender-affirming care for LGBTQ+ immigrants.

• Staff training: There must be regular mandatory training on trauma-informed care, anti-discrimination, and abuse prevention for all detention staff and contractors.

• Accessible reporting: Easy-to-use reporting mechanisms should be in place, including counseling and legal aid.

• Community alternatives: Expansion of community-based alternatives, such as supervised release, case management, and legal support should be implemented to limit the use of immigration detention centers.

Every single person deserves safety, dignity, and the opportunity to heal from trauma - not experience more of it. All of these changes are not radical; they’re basic human rights that shouldn't even be in question. 

Support and Advocacy Resources

Here are some resources for survivors, families, and advocates focused on immigration detention.   

• Freedom for Immigrants: Committed to end immigration detention, Freedom for Immigrants provides support and advocacy for survivors of abuse in detention.

• American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): The ACLU offers legal assistance, advocacy, and other resources on detainee rights and abuse issues.

• National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC): Provides legal services, advice, and advocacy related to detention and human rights.

• Detention Watch Network: Offers research, policy advocacy, and organization resources focused on immigration detention reform.

• National PREA Resource Center: Information on PREA standards, audits, and reporting.

• International Detention Coalition: Provides global alternatives to detention and policy reform.

• UNHCR (UN Refugee Agency): Offers protection and assistance to refugees worldwide, including monitoring immigration detention practices.

• International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP): Mobilizes legal resources to provide direct client services for refugees worldwide.

Remember that laws, procedures, and available services vary significantly by country. Always seek local legal advice and connect with organizations in your specific area for the most relevant support.

Centering Survivors in the Fight for Justice

Abuse in immigration holding and detention centers is an urgent concern that continues to affect far too many people. The pain and trauma that immigrants have already experienced should never be exacerbated while they’re in detention. They should be cared for and protected, not further harmed.

With increased and continued advocacy and awareness, abuse can become more visible and preventable. Comprehensive change can begin to take place by supporting organizations working on this issue, staying informed, and demanding accountability. Full PREA compliance, transparent reporting, trauma-informed care, and community-based alternatives are clear paths forward.

There is tremendous power in collective action and cultural change. Real transformation is possible when people come together and press for these essential changes in immigration detention centers. Abuse of any form is unacceptable, and sexual abuse, in particular, requires specialized protection for vulnerable populations who have already survived so much.

Every survivor deserves protection, dignity, and the chance to heal. And survivor voices are some of the most powerful forces for creating this change. Visit the Our Wave community platform for more survivor resources, connection, and support.