Asylum Denied: Health Risk Rationale Gains New Grip at U.S. Borders

A new U.S. regulation finalized during the Trump administration enables authorities to deny asylum on public health grounds related to communicable diseases. Though not initially effective, it aids in restricting asylum seekers, echoing past Trump-era measures and sparking criticism over potential misuse.

The United States has introduced a new regulation that permits denying migrants asylum on the basis of public health risks posed by communicable diseases. Initially drafted during President Donald Trump's first term amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the regulation comes into effect on Wednesday.

This measure, although not immediately impactful, arms the Trump administration with tools to further limit the entry of asylum seekers, specifically targeting those attempting to cross the U.S.-Mexico border. Under Trump, illegal border crossings hit record lows following widespread asylum prohibitions.

Despite heavy criticism from advocates who claim such health regulations are being misused, the Biden administration did not terminate the regulation, which also applies to "withholding of removal" protections, highlighting ongoing debates over immigration policy.