WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Trump administration has set a refugee admission annual cap of 7,500 for fiscal year 2026, a historic low at a time of heightened global instability. The cap comes with the instruction that admissions “primarily be allocated among Afrikaners from South Africa pursuant to Executive Order 14204.” The following is a quote from Jennie Murray, President and CEO of the National Immigration Forum:
“The administration’s decision to set a low admissions cap is deeply disappointing and contrasts with America’s longstanding tradition of welcoming the persecuted.”
“The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program has been a vital tool that strengthens our national security and bolsters our economy, in addition to honoring human dignity. Refugees — including persecuted religious minorities — are the most thoroughly vetted individuals entering the United States, and their admission through orderly, well-managed pathways reflects our nation’s commitment to offering protection to those fleeing violence and discrimination.”
“The administration and Congress should work on long-term immigration solutions that allow our country to keep honoring our tradition of welcoming.”