The Trump administration is preparing to call for major restrictions on global asylum rights during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, signaling a dramatic shift from decades-old international refugee protections. According to planning documents, U.S. officials want asylum seekers to apply in the first country they enter, rather than choosing their destination, and limit protection to a temporary status. Host countries would decide if and when conditions allow return, fundamentally altering the post-World War II asylum framework.
Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau is slated to lead the U.S. side event. Andrew Veprek, nominated to head the State Department’s refugee division, argued that the current system is outdated and widely abused for economic migration. A State Department spokesperson echoed this, saying global asylum reform is necessary for the modern era.
Human rights advocates strongly oppose the move. Mark Hetfield, president of HIAS, warned it could roll back protections established after the Holocaust, leaving vulnerable groups without safe refuge.
Within the U.S., the Trump administration has already cut refugee admissions, prioritized white South Africans for resettlement, and redirected the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration away from its traditional role. Internal notes show officials stressing that Afrikaner resettlement is now a top priority, with increasing pressure to accelerate arrivals.
Since taking office, Trump has pushed a restrictive immigration agenda, including refugee freezes and sharp reductions in admissions. Reuters reported that officials are considering a refugee ceiling between 40,000 and 60,000 for 2026, heavily tilted toward Afrikaners and possibly Europeans facing political persecution for anti-migration views.
While the U.S. cannot unilaterally dismantle global refugee treaties, this initiative signals Washington’s intent to reshape international norms. Analysts note that although some governments may support aspects of the plan, broad international backing remains uncertain.