Project 2025, a significant initiative, proposes several changes to the U.S. asylum system that could drastically impact the lives of asylum seekers. Below are the key changes being proposed:
1. Raising the Credible Fear Standard to Well-Founded Fear
Currently, asylum seekers must demonstrate a credible fear of persecution to pass an interview. Project 2025 plans to raise this standard to a well-founded fear. This means that asylum seekers would need to provide evidence that their fear of persecution is objectively reasonable. This change could reduce the number of asylum claims by ensuring that only those with substantial evidence are granted protection.
However, this higher threshold may make it more difficult for vulnerable individuals, particularly those with fewer financial resources, to provide the necessary evidence. The shift from merely fearing to returning home to proving that fear is objectively reasonable could significantly impact those most in need of protection.
2. Codifying Former Bars to Asylum and Third Country Transit Rules
Project 2025 also seeks to codify former restrictions that barred certain individuals from seeking asylum. This includes reintroducing the third-country transit rule, which would make individuals ineligible for asylum in the U.S. if they passed through another country without seeking asylum there first.
This change aims to discourage people from using the U.S. as their first choice for asylum and to push them to seek protection in the first safe country they reach. However, this would disproportionately affect vulnerable populations who may not have the means or opportunity to seek asylum in transit countries.
3. Modifying or Eliminating the PSG Protected Ground
The Particular Social Group (PSG) protected ground has been a crucial aspect of asylum claims, particularly for those fleeing gang violence and domestic abuse. Project 2025 proposes either eliminating this ground or setting specific limits on its application. The goal is to create a more predictable and uniform asylum process.
If this proposal is implemented, it could severely limit the ability of individuals fleeing gang violence or domestic abuse to qualify for asylum. This would particularly impact those from regions like Central America, where gang violence and domestic violence are rampant and often go unaddressed by local authorities.
4. Restricting Asylum for Individuals from High Migration Regions
Another significant proposal under Project 2025 is to restrict asylum for individuals from regions with high migration rates. The idea is to manage and control large influxes of migrants by not allowing individuals from these regions into the U.S. and expelling others.
This proposal targets areas suffering from political instability or natural disasters, making it even more difficult for individuals from these regions to access asylum and protection, even if their claims are valid. The proposal effectively prevents these individuals from filing for asylum by denying them entry into the U.S.
5. Setting a Filing Fee for Asylum Applications
Currently, there is no fee to file for asylum in the U.S. Project 2025 proposes introducing a filing fee, aiming to increase USCIS’s budget and limit the number of asylum applications.
This change would create a significant barrier for vulnerable populations, especially those fleeing poverty. A filing fee, regardless of the amount, could prevent individuals who have already fled dangerous conditions from seeking the protection they need.
Conclusion
The proposed changes under Project 2025 represent a shift towards stricter asylum policies, aiming to reduce the number of asylum claims and tighten the criteria for protection. If implemented, these changes could have severe implications for those seeking asylum in the U.S. It will be crucial to advocate for the humanitarian principles that underpin the asylum system and ensure that affected individuals are informed and supported as they navigate these potential new challenges.
If you or any family members have questions about the proposed changes to Asylum policies or any other immigration issues, feel free to call us at 713-270-7171. Reyes Blum PLLC is a law firm with experience in immigration law and has helped thousands of clients in Houston reach their American Dream.
Article by Attorney Xotchitl Rodriguez