Trump Tries to Limit Asylum Seekers: NPR

International law protects asylum seekers fleeing persecution in their home countries, ready to provide evidence that they belong to a protected class that includes race, religion, nationality, political leanings. Even so, the Trump administration is trying to impose limits, specifically targeting people crossing the US-Mexico border: “Asylum-seeking immigrants who pass through a third country en route to the U.S. must first apply for refugee status in that country rather than at the U.S. border,” reports Bill Chappell for NPR. Court challenges are anticipated. “The interim final rule will take effect immediately after it is published in the Federal Register on Tuesday, according to the departments of Justice and Homeland Security.” The administration is open about its desire to deter immigration from poor nations, trying numerous orders and programs, even as investigations are underway about crowded, harsh conditions of detention centers for migrants, including family separations. The administration blames migrants for a range of US economic problems, crime and reduced job opportunities for citizens, and claims the asylum system is abused. Chappell explains how the policy could add new pressures for Mexico and Guatemala. – YaleGlobal