Proposed Order Raises Concerns Over Immigration Policy Shift
As the Biden administration grapples with a surge in migrant arrivals at the United States-Mexico border, President Joe Biden is reportedly preparing to issue an executive order that would effectively shut down asylum processing if the daily average of arrivals exceeds 2,500 individuals.
The proposed order has sparked intense debate and raised questions about the administration’s approach to immigration policy.
Background
The United States has long been a destination for individuals seeking asylum from persecution and violence in their home countries. Under international and domestic law, those fleeing persecution have the right to seek asylum and have their claims reviewed in a fair and timely manner.
However, the influx of migrants arriving at the southern border has strained the country’s asylum system and raised concerns about border security and immigration enforcement.
Proposed Order Details
The executive order being considered by the Biden administration would impose strict restrictions on asylum processing if the daily average of migrant arrivals exceeds 2,500 individuals. Under the proposed order:
- Asylum processing at ports of entry would be temporarily suspended.
- Migrants arriving at the border would be quickly processed and returned to their home countries or to Mexico under the Title 42 public health order, which allows for the expulsion of individuals to prevent the spread of communicable diseases.
- Asylum seekers would be required to wait in Mexico or in their home countries until their claims can be processed, effectively reinstating the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), also known as the “Remain in Mexico” policy, which was implemented during the Trump administration and later rescinded by President Biden.
Rationale and Concerns
The proposed executive order is reportedly driven by concerns over the strain on resources and infrastructure at the southern border, as well as public health considerations amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Proponents argue that the order is necessary to manage the influx of migrants and ensure border