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In recent news, an article titled “Trump Administration Begins Sending Asylum Seekers to Guatemala” reported that, under a new rule, the United States has decided to send asylum seekers from Honduras and El Salvador back to Guatemala. Unbelievably, the US government has come to an agreement to send asylum seekers to Guatemala without their consent when they arrive at US borders without a visa or permission of entry. This now means refugees will be denied entry or protection unless they are able to provide sufficient evidence to an asylum officer that they are at risk of being tortured or victimized if sent to Guatemala.

This idea of a safe third country has been an objective the Trump administration has tried to pass and continues to pursue by convincing other countries along US borders to sign agreements allowing refugees to seek asylum there instead of in the United States. In addition, the US claimed that the Department of Homeland Security had verified Guatemala was fit to properly evaluate asylum claims and provide fair measures to determine eligibility. However, concerns were raised when it was discovered that the asylum office in Guatemala had fewer than 10 employees. Days before the agreement was set to take effect, the Department of Homeland Security also stated that it was unsure whether Guatemala could provide refugees with basic necessities such as food, shelter, and other essential resources.

The Trump administration needs to reconsider this new rule before allowing it to go into full effect. Refugees come to the US seeking help and protection and should not be sent to another country where they may also face life-threatening conditions.