White South Africans Granted Refugee Status in the U.S.
NBC
NBC | May 12, 2025
A group of 59 Afrikaners, a white ethnic minority from South Africa, have been granted refugee status and resettled in the United States. These individuals, who lived in South Africa during the apartheid era, were welcomed by U.S. officials. The decision to grant them refugee status has sparked debate, raising questions about immigration policies and historical context. This move highlights the complexities of refugee resettlement programs and the diverse backgrounds of those seeking asylum.
A group of 59 Afrikaners, white South Africans who lived under apartheid rule, have arrived in the United States as refugees. U.S. officials confirmed their arrival, marking a notable instance of white South Africans being granted this protection. The decision to accept them as refugees stems from concerns about their safety and well-being in South Africa, where they claim to face persecution. Supporters of the decision cite rising crime rates and discriminatory policies as justification for offering asylum. However, critics argue that other groups in South Africa face similar challenges and question the prioritization of this particular demographic. The arrival of these refugees has ignited debate about U.S. immigration policy and the criteria used to determine refugee status. It also underscores the ongoing complexities of South Africa's post-apartheid society and the challenges faced by various communities within the nation.