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yesterday

Trump Administration Prepares to Welcome First Afrikaner Refugees Under Controversial Policy

The first group of 54 white South African Afrikaners is expected to arrive in the U.S. next week, as South Africa disputes claims of racial persecution.

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Protesters outside the US embassy in Pretoria. Trump claims that Afrikaners are “victims of unjust racial discrimination”
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FILE PHOTO: Demonstrators hold placards in support of U.S. President Donald Trump's stance against what he calls racist laws, land expropriation, and farm attacks, outside the American Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa, February 15, 2025. REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko/File Photo

Overview

  • President Trump's February executive order prioritized the resettlement of Afrikaners, citing 'unjust racial discrimination,' while maintaining a freeze on broader refugee admissions.
  • The first group of 54 Afrikaners is slated to arrive at Washington Dulles International Airport early next week, though plans remain subject to flight logistics and final approvals.
  • South Africa’s government has formally protested the U.S. move, denying claims of racial persecution and highlighting Afrikaners' continued economic privilege in the country.
  • The resettlement process for Afrikaners was expedited, taking weeks instead of the typical 18–24 months, and includes federal assistance for housing and basic needs.
  • Critics argue the policy reflects political motivations and contrasts sharply with the suspension of aid to thousands of other vetted refugees from conflict zones worldwide.