The Trump administration has decided to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 9,000 Afghans in the U.S., effective May 20. This decision, based on a review of conditions in Afghanistan, contradicts previous assessments highlighting the country’s ongoing dangers. Advocates express concern that this move may expose many to potential deportation despite their contributions to U.S. efforts during the war in Afghanistan. The change reflects broader shifts in immigration policy under the Trump administration.

The Trump administration announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for thousands of Afghans residing in the United States, effective May 20. TPS provides protection to individuals from countries experiencing war or disaster, preventing deportation and allowing work authorization. Previously, the Biden administration had designated Afghans as eligible for TPS in 2022 due to the turmoil following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, and had extended it in 2023 due to ongoing conflict.

However, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that a recent review determined Afghanistan no longer meets TPS criteria. This decision was made by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, following an evaluation from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and consultations with the Department of State. Additionally, DHS plans to revoke TPS for individuals from Cameroon, as reported by the New York Times.

Military veteran Shawn VanDriver, president of AfghanEvac, criticized the administration’s conclusion regarding conditions in Afghanistan. He expressed that the situation has deteriorated, stating that “Afghans who were invited here, who built lives here, are now being told they do not matter.” He termed the decision as cruel and chaotic, contradicting American promises to support allies.

Countless Afghans were targeted by the Taliban for their roles in the U.S. effort during the prolonged war in Afghanistan. While many resettled in the U.S. through Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) and the Refugee Admissions Program, others remain in limbo seeking SIV status. Andrew Sullivan, executive director of No One Left Behind, highlighted that TPS provided crucial stability for these individuals as they awaited processing.

The Trump administration has aggressively reformed immigration policies, with TPS being a focal point. Recently, DHS attempted to revoke TPS for Venezuelans, which led to a legal challenge that was temporarily halted by U.S. District Judge Edward Chen, who cautioned that the administration’s actions would cause irreparable harm to recipients, failing to demonstrate significant counteracting issues for continuing TPS protection.

In conclusion, the decision to end Temporary Protected Status for Afghans has raised significant concerns regarding the safety and stability of those affected. The comments from advocates highlight the urgency of the situation in Afghanistan, which remains perilous for many individuals. Efforts to support Afghans at risk emphasize the need for continued humanitarian aid and protection, juxtaposed against the backdrop of changing immigration policies under the Trump administration. The ramifications of ending TPS may result in negative impacts on both the individuals and U.S. commitments to its allies.

Original Source: www.npr.org

Related posts:

Trump Administration Ends Temporary Protected Status for Afghans and Cameroonians Trump Administration Terminates TPS for Afghans and Cameroonians US and Pakistan Intensify Threats Against Afghan Migrants Amid Political Tensions No One Left Behind: A Lifeline for Afghan Refugees After Funding Cuts