Trump Plans US Refugee Overhaul Prioritising Specific Groups

The United States may soon see a major change in its refugee programme under President Donald Trump, shifting the system that has historically prioritised people fleeing war, persecution, or life-threatening situations. Reports suggest the proposed changes would give preference to specific groups, including English speakers, white South Africans, and Europeans who have faced online targeting for expressing their views.

Traditionally, the US refugee programme has been open to individuals in urgent danger regardless of race, nationality, or background. Trump’s proposal, however, signals a move away from this long-standing principle, potentially favouring certain populations over others.

Earlier this month, reports indicated that Trump planned to reduce US refugee admissions from 125,000 under the Biden administration to as few as 7,500 in the upcoming fiscal year, marking the lowest intake in decades. The new proposal also focuses on how well refugees can integrate into American society, including possible classes on US history, cultural values, and social norms.

A key focus of the changes is the Afrikaner community, the white minority in South Africa. According to Trump, Afrikaners face discrimination and race-based violence under the current South African government. As part of a fast-track relocation plan, about 70 Afrikaner farmers were already brought to the US in May and June. This is seen as the start of the new initiative.

The proposal also suggests prioritising Europeans who have faced persecution for peacefully expressing their views online. One internal document noted, “The sharp increase in diversity has reduced the level of social trust essential for the functioning of a democratic polity. The administration should only welcome refugees who can be fully and appropriately assimilated and are aligned with the president's objectives.”

The Trump administration’s State Department spokesperson, Thomas Pigott, said, “This administration unapologetically prioritises the interests of the American people.” Officials from the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security presented the plan to the White House in April and July of this year.

While supporters of the programme argue it helps specific groups facing persecution, critics say it undermines the humanitarian principles of the US refugee system, which has historically offered protection based on urgent need rather than race or nationality.

This overhaul could permanently reshape the refugee programme, marking one of the most significant policy shifts in decades. Refugees seeking safety in the US may now face stricter selection criteria, while the focus on select groups may limit opportunities for those fleeing other conflicts and crises around the world.