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The organization Amnesty International launched a strong criticism this Saturday against the administration of President Donald Trump following the announcement of the end of the humanitarian parole program that benefited migrants from Cuba, Venezuela, Haiti, and Nicaragua.
"Trump reaffirms his contempt for human rights and the international obligations of the U.S.," wrote Erika Guevara Rosas, director for the Americas at Amnesty International, on social media.
Through a poster titled "Lives in Limbo," Guevara Rosas denounces the measure that leaves more than 500,000 migrants without protection who entered legally under this program and warns that it will have "devastating consequences" for those affected.
The Executive Order 14165 signed by Trump on January 20, 2025, states that those who do not have any other legal basis to remain in the country must leave voluntarily or face deportation proceedings starting April 24.
According to a draft from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), signed by Secretary Kristi Noem, the termination of the program also revokes pending travel permits, confirmed support forms (I-134A), and employment authorization derived from the parole.
The DHS argued that the policy implemented by the Biden administration did not reduce irregular migration or improve border security, but furthermore overwhelmed public resources and the immigration judicial system.
Since its inception in 2023, the program known as CHNV has allowed the entry of over 532,000 people from Cuba, Venezuela, Haiti, and Nicaragua. Of that total, at least 110,000 Cubans received authorization to travel, while thousands are still awaiting their immigration process.
The Trump administration's decision could also impact over 800,000 people in total, including 240,000 Ukrainians and other beneficiaries of various parole programs.
Frequently Asked Questions about the end of humanitarian parole and its impact on Cuban migrants and those from other countries
What does the end of the humanitarian parole program announced by the Trump administration imply?
The Trump administration's announcement regarding the end of the humanitarian parole program means that more than 500,000 migrants from Cuba, Venezuela, Haiti, and Nicaragua will need to leave the United States or face deportation proceedings. The decision revokes pending travel permits and employment authorizations granted through the parole.
Why did the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) decide to end the parole program?
The DHS argued that the parole programs did not succeed in reducing irregular migration or improving border security. Furthermore, they overwhelmed public resources and the immigration judicial system. According to the DHS, mass admissions were contrary to the original spirit of the parole law.
What options do Cuban migrants affected by the end of humanitarian parole have?
Cuban migrants already in the U.S. may consider applying for permanent residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act, which allows for residency after one year and one day in the country. They can also explore other avenues such as political asylum, depending on their personal circumstances.
What are Amnesty International's criticisms regarding the end of humanitarian parole?
Amnesty International has strongly criticized the decision to end the humanitarian parole, viewing it as a reaffirmation of Trump's disregard for human rights and the international obligations of the U.S. The organization warns of the "devastating consequences" for over 500,000 affected migrants.
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