Biden's asylum app faces backlash amid migrant crisis
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In July, US Customs and Border Protection reported the lowest number of arrests for illegal crossings at the US-Mexico border in nearly four years, a development attributed to new asylum rules implemented by the Biden administration. These rules encourage migrants to utilize legal pathways for seeking asylum, including the use of the CBP One app, designed to streamline the appointment process for asylum seekers.
However, the app has faced significant criticism for its functionality and accessibility. Jeremy Young, an attorney with a nonprofit law firm, highlighted that the app is not only prone to glitches but also excludes many vulnerable migrants. Those without smartphones or who do not speak English, Spanish, or Haitian Creole face barriers, as do individuals with disabilities, such as the visually impaired. The app's limitations effectively restrict access to the asylum process for many.
Currently, there are only 1,450 appointments available daily through the CBP One app, while tens of thousands of migrants are seeking these slots. This disparity has led to an average wait time of seven months in Tijuana, raising concerns among local officials about overcrowded shelters and the mental health of migrants. Jasmine, an asylum seeker, reported rising anxiety and depression among those waiting, particularly affecting women and children.
Maria, a mother fleeing organized crime in Michoacán, Mexico, expressed her frustration with the lengthy wait times and the lack of legal options, stating that Border Patrol agents have repeatedly turned her away, insisting she use the app. Local officials, including Enrique Lucero from Tijuana's migrant affairs department, noted that the long wait times for CBP One appointments may inadvertently drive migrants to cross illegally, as many lose hope after months of waiting.
As the Biden administration's new asylum rules face scrutiny, immigrant advocacy groups have filed lawsuits challenging these regulations, calling for an increase in the number of available appointments to address the growing crisis at the border.
However, the app has faced significant criticism for its functionality and accessibility. Jeremy Young, an attorney with a nonprofit law firm, highlighted that the app is not only prone to glitches but also excludes many vulnerable migrants. Those without smartphones or who do not speak English, Spanish, or Haitian Creole face barriers, as do individuals with disabilities, such as the visually impaired. The app's limitations effectively restrict access to the asylum process for many.
Currently, there are only 1,450 appointments available daily through the CBP One app, while tens of thousands of migrants are seeking these slots. This disparity has led to an average wait time of seven months in Tijuana, raising concerns among local officials about overcrowded shelters and the mental health of migrants. Jasmine, an asylum seeker, reported rising anxiety and depression among those waiting, particularly affecting women and children.
Maria, a mother fleeing organized crime in Michoacán, Mexico, expressed her frustration with the lengthy wait times and the lack of legal options, stating that Border Patrol agents have repeatedly turned her away, insisting she use the app. Local officials, including Enrique Lucero from Tijuana's migrant affairs department, noted that the long wait times for CBP One appointments may inadvertently drive migrants to cross illegally, as many lose hope after months of waiting.
As the Biden administration's new asylum rules face scrutiny, immigrant advocacy groups have filed lawsuits challenging these regulations, calling for an increase in the number of available appointments to address the growing crisis at the border.
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