In a significant departure from previous policies, the Trump administration has set a new annual limit of 7,500 refugee admissions, with a reported emphasis on white South Africans. This sharp reduction and shift in focus are raising alarms about the nation’s commitment to global humanitarian responsibilities and its image as a haven for the displaced.
The newly announced ceiling for fiscal year 2026 represents a dramatic decrease from the 125,000 cap previously established. The administration has offered no specific reasons for this drastic cut, merely citing “humanitarian concerns or is otherwise in the national interest” in its Federal Register notice.
Department of Homeland Security figures indicate a target to resettle 6,000 white South Africans by November. An official statement suggested this group aligns with “American values and can assimilate quickly,” a rationale strongly criticized as racist by human rights advocates. They argue this transforms the program into a discriminatory process, moving away from assisting those most in need.
This move continues a pattern of reduced refugee intake, following cuts during Trump’s initial presidency. It occurs against a backdrop of a worsening global refugee crisis, impacting millions worldwide. The selectivity towards white South Africans, reportedly comprising up to 80% of admissions, has drawn widespread criticism for undermining humanitarian principles and potentially introducing racial bias into the resettlement system.