UNHCR statement on new US regulation on asylum

Among the people on the move in Central America and Mexico today, many are fleeing life-threatening violence or persecution and are in need of international protection. UNHCR expects all countries, including the United States, to make sure any person in need of refugee protection and humanitarian assistance is able to receive it both promptly and without obstruction in accordance with the 1967 refugee Protocol to which the United States is a party.
 
In an ideal and predictable world, asylum seekers should present themselves at the border and request protection. However, the reality of refugee flight is complex and requires management in a structured way with dignified reception arrangements. Long-standing insufficient reception capacity at official U.S. southern border ports of entry is resulting in significant delays in northern Mexico and is forcing many vulnerable asylum-seekers to turn in desperation to smugglers and cross the border irregularly. Many asylum-seeking families making this desperate choice are not trying to evade border authorities.
 
National security and dignified reception of refugees and asylum-seekers are not mutually exclusive, but rather mutually reinforcing. UNHCR stands ready at all times to support the United States and all governments and civil society partners working to guarantee that any person fleeing life-threatening violence or persecution is able to reach safe ground and is able to have their claim reviewed.

For more information contact:

• In Washington, Chris Boian, [email protected], +1 202 243 7634