Around the world, refugees are shut out of the US by Trumps new policies

Published: Friday, December 5, 2025 at 12:52 pm

Trump Administration Policies Stall Refugee Program, Leaving Thousands in Limbo

Recent policy changes by the Trump administration have significantly impacted the United States' refugee program, leaving thousands of individuals around the world in a state of uncertainty. The administration, citing economic and national security concerns, has implemented new restrictions and a review of existing refugee cases.

The program, which had previously served as a haven for those fleeing war and persecution, was initially suspended on the first day of the administration. While the program was later resumed, the number of refugee admissions was set at a historic low of 7,500, with a focus on white South Africans.

The Associated Press spoke with several families whose lives have been disrupted by these policy shifts. One family from Syria, the Dawoods, had been approved to come to the U.S. but faced delays due to a medical issue and subsequent policy changes, leaving them separated. Another, a Chinese pastor named Lu Taizhi, has been waiting for over a decade to be resettled in the U.S. after fleeing persecution in China. His application, approved by the U.S., has been indefinitely postponed. A third family, Louis and Apolina, were separated after fleeing war in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Louis was admitted as a refugee, but his wife and children remain in a refugee camp, their reunification request frozen.

These families, and countless others, had prepared for a new life in America, selling possessions, ending leases, and undergoing interviews. Now, they face an uncertain future, separated from loved ones and struggling to rebuild their lives.

BNN's Perspective:

While the administration's concerns regarding national security and economic impact are valid, it's crucial to balance these with the humanitarian needs of vulnerable populations. The current policies appear to be creating significant hardship for those seeking refuge, and a more nuanced approach that considers both security and compassion is needed.

Keywords: Refugees, Trump, Immigration, Policy, Restrictions, Admissions, National Security, Economic Concerns, Separation, Persecution, Humanitarian, Asylum, Refugee Program, Dawood, Lu Taizhi, Louis, Apolina

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