Trump’s Myanmar travel ban: a blow to refugees’ hopes
The Trump administration’s immigration restrictions have had a devastating impact on people from Myanmar’s, disproportionately affecting refugees and students. Many of them, who have waited years in refugee camps, are now seeing their dreams of a better life in the United States dashed, while the new policies threaten to set a dangerous precedent for other countries.
Bangkok (AsiaNews) – Myanmar has been affected by the decision of the Trump administration to halt visas from certain countries, based on the claim that almost half of Myanmar student visa holders are staying in the United States beyond their expiration date.
In fact, the people most affected by this measure will be immigrants and refugees who have long been living in refugee camps in Thailand and Malaysia and are trying to access a job or a study programme in the United States.
The travel ban has cast a shadow of despair, especially on those who were on the verge of completing the immigration process to the United States, including those seeking to reunite with their families.
Even those who were lucky enough to win the "Diversity Visa" lottery now live in uncertainty, disappointed, their future hanging by a thread.
Nicolas Seng Ja, a student whose dreams of studying at a US university are now in limbo, expressed his feelings, echoing many of his peers.
“The ban feels deeply unfair, especially to ordinary people like students and families fleeing persecution, who have no connection to the reasons behind these restrictions.”
“This policy is a significant obstacle for Myanmar’s refugees,” said Seng Naw, a volunteer at a refugee camp. “It limits our access to quality education and a better life, which are essential for young refugees trying to rebuild their lives.”
The new travel restrictions are also impacting those who had already obtained visas to move to the United States from Malaysia or Thailand.
These restrictions further complicate the already precarious situation of refugees and asylum seekers. Stuck in a camp, unable to return to Myanmar, struggling to survive where they are, they now face additional barriers to reach the United States.
Aung Kyaw Min, a migrant rights activist based in Thailand, has witnessed firsthand the shattering of hopes and dreams among refugees. “This decision disproportionately affects the most vulnerable: refugees and asylum seekers,” he said.
Robert Nay Win, a prominent youth leader in Yangon, sees the travel ban as a serious setback to the aspirations of many young people from Myanmar.
“We remain confident that future policies will be guided by the principles of fairness, compassion and a thorough understanding of Myanmar’s complex context, ensuring refugees receive the dignity and opportunities they deserve,” he said.
However, the potential knock-on effects of this policy are a serious concern. Other countries could adopt similarly restrictive migration measures, making it even harder for refugees to find safety.
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