In the aftermath of Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) has issued a guide emphasizing the need for robust support for asylum seekers. As part of its ongoing advocacy, the IRC is urging the incoming administration to work collaboratively on enhancing protections for refugee rights.
Highlighting the global displacement crisis, the IRC notes that over 120 million people have been forced to flee due to conflicts or disasters. Of these, around 50 million are currently outside their native countries. The organization is calling for increased education and advocacy around refugee and asylum issues and is seeking donations and volunteers to bolster its efforts.
Founded in 1933, the IRC operates in more than 40 countries, providing vital humanitarian aid to those displaced by persecution, natural disasters, and violent conflicts. Its efforts include economic assistance, education, and relocation assistance, among other services. The IRC has criticized both Trump and Biden administration policies, namely Title 42 and the Biden-era “Asylum Ban”, describing them as contraventions of international law.
These policies have reportedly led to significant harm, with over 13,000 cases of violence against individuals expelled to Mexico under Title 42. The IRC argues that deterrence policies are ineffective and have unintended consequences, such as unpredictable movements and empowering smugglers. The organization insists that reinforcing protection systems and asylum frameworks in collaboration with civil society is crucial for upholding the rights and integrity of displaced people.
During his victory speech, President-elect Trump vowed to “seal up” the borders. His previous administration had implemented a ban preventing migrants caught illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border from seeking asylum. Similarly, President Biden sustained some Trump-era measures and introduced a 2023 “Asylum Ban” further tightening asylum access.
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