FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 25, 2019
PRESS CONTACT
Henrike Dessaules
hdessaules@refugeerights.org
646.459.3081
TRUMP’S REMAIN IN MEXICO PLAN ENDANGERS ASYLUM-SEEKING FAMILIES
(New York, NY) – Today, the Trump Administration will begin turning back asylum seekers at the Southern U.S. border and require them to stay in Mexico while waiting for their asylum claims to be processed. Previously, asylum seekers were able to stay in the United States during that process, which can often take years to complete. The International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP) condemns this plan, which endangers already vulnerable families.
Betsy Fisher, IRAP’s Policy Director, said: “Asylum seekers from Central America are fleeing unspeakable violence and their journeys to the United States are dangerous and harrowing. For many of them, Mexico is not a safe place to stay. In addition, the Administration has not clarified how they will ensure that the asylum seekers’ claims will be heard. Once again, the Trump Administration is doing everything they can to sabotage the asylum process and harm those who come to us in need of protection.”
IRAP calls on the Administration to allow asylum seekers to claim asylum from within the United States and at official ports of entry, as the United States has done for decades.
To view the press release, click here.
International Refugee Assistance Project
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