The Migration Policy Institute, a nonpartisan organization that conducts authoritative research and analysis of information about migration and integration policies recently came out with an analysis of what the Trump administration has achieved so far.
https://youtu.be/2Lfk8ZqqH9M
The analysis shows that despite the strong pronouncements made by President Trump about his intention to change the migration landscape in the US, his administration has so far achieved only baby steps. Nonetheless, the changes implemented even if not visible, are important, since fewer number of immigrants have succeeded in gaining legitimate entry into the country
Examples of Policy Shifts that Lowered Migrant Admissions in the US
While Trump’s main political promise to build a higher US-Mexico Border Wall in the south is yet to see fulfillment, several changes were set into motion. Their implementation in related federal agencies somehow brought down the number of foreign nationals taken in by the country.
Enhancement of Immigration Enforcement – Interviews on all visa applicants, including those applying for “green card” has been mandated. Applicants for temporary visa were met with increased scrutiny, while additional requirements became necessary as part of a more comprehensive vetting procedure. All of which, contributed to the slowing down of US visa processing.
Cut Backs on Humanitarian Programs – In addition to increasing application requirements, federal agencies in charge of handling refugees and asylum seekers have implemented a narrower set of eligibility criteria. The goal of which is to scale down the number of noncitizens allowed to enter as refugees, or to receive temporary protection.
Increased Vetting and Obstacles for Legal Immigration – After hurdling a legal battle, the Trump administration succeeded in banning nationals coming from Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria, Venezuela and Yemen; citing as reasons terrorist activities, inability to properly document travelers and poor cooperation with US authorities.
Critical Setbacks Preventing Trump Administration in Implementing Other Migration Policy Shifts
To date, the Trump administration is faced with several lawsuits and house committee investigations. Many of which are aimed at putting an end to president Trump’s continuing pursuit of the billions of dollars worth of funding for expanding the US Mexico border wall. In fact, none of Trump’s proposed legislations have been passed by the US Congress, while not a few court rulings have suspended the implementation of his executive orders, which include the “Zero Policy”. The latter calls for the filing of criminal charges against adults proven to have illegally entered the US.