October 1, 2024
“AMERICA IS BETTER AND STRONGER BECAUSE OF REFUGEES AND THEIR FAMILIES”: IRAP WELCOMES NEW PRESIDENTIAL DETERMINATION ON REFUGEE ADMISSIONS
The Announcement
Last night, the Biden administration announced the Presidential Determination on Refugee Admissions, setting the annual refugee resettlement target for Fiscal Year 2025 at 125,000. This is a significant increase from the 100,000 refugees resettled in the previous year, the highest in 30 years. The next administration is encouraged to continue making the necessary investments to reach or exceed the 125,000 goal.
Statement from IRAP
- Commendation for the Biden Administration’s efforts in rebuilding and sustaining the U.S. refugee resettlement program, as expressed by Sunil Varghese, Senior Director of Global Policy at IRAP.
- The importance of refugees and their families in making America ‘better and stronger.’
- Encouragement for further advancements in the overseas refugee processing system and growth in domestic refugee resettlement capacity to reflect the country’s willingness to welcome and benefit from refugees.
Op-Ed from a Former Refugee
Bahati Kanyamanza, Global Partnerships Director at IRAP and a former refugee, penned an op-ed stressing the significance of supporting a strong and sustained refugee resettlement program. The op-ed highlighted how this not only aligns with America’s humanitarian values but also contributes to a lasting impact for future generations.
Further Reading
- Learn more about the bipartisan letter from nearly 500 state and local elected officials advocating for refugee resettlement.
- Read Bahati Kanyamanza’s op-ed on Common Dreams: “Biden Should Back Refugee Resettlement to Strengthen America.”
The International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP) is a global legal aid and advocacy organization striving for a world where refugees and all seeking safety can assert their right to freedom of movement and lasting refuge. Visit their website for more information.
Source: refugeerights.org