On his first day in office, President Donald Trump issued a series of executive orders and decrees focused on tightening immigration laws and enforcing stricter measures at the US-Mexico border. These actions include controversial steps to end birthright citizenship, declare Mexican drug cartels as terrorist organisations, and revoke Biden-era immigration policies.
Key executive orders
- Ending birthright citizenship
Trump announced plans to change the longstanding practice of granting citizenship to anyone born on US soil, regardless of their parents’ immigration status. The proposed change, which is enshrined in the US Constitution, would require a constitutional amendment or significant legal reinterpretation. Advocacy groups, including the ACLU, have already vowed to challenge this in court. - National emergency at the border
Declaring illegal immigration a national emergency, Trump signed an order allowing officials to “repel, repatriate, or remove” migrants at the southern border until he deems the situation under control. - Revoking Biden-era policies
Trump swiftly overturned nearly 80 executive actions from his predecessor Joe Biden. Notably, he dismantled the CBP One app, a tool that helped migrants schedule appointments for asylum applications, and ended a programme that allowed 30,000 migrants from select countries to legally enter the US each month. - Terrorist designation for Mexican cartels
In a move aimed at combating organised crime, Trump declared Mexican drug cartels terrorist organisations, emphasising the need to protect the US from threats at its borders.
Reaction and criticism
Immigration advocacy groups have condemned Trump’s actions as unconstitutional and inhumane. The ACLU called the birthright citizenship proposal a “reckless repudiation of American values.” United We Dream, an immigrant youth organisation, criticised the administration’s approach as devastating for families and communities.
On the ground, the sudden end of the CBP One app has left thousands of migrants stranded in Mexico. Many had been waiting for months for appointments to enter the US. Oralia, a Mexican woman fleeing cartel violence with her epileptic son, expressed despair: “I hope God touches his heart. We really do need the help.”
Challenges ahead
While Trump’s orders represent a significant shift in US immigration policy, many are expected to face legal challenges. Changing the constitutional definition of birthright citizenship would require a two-thirds vote in Congress, a daunting prospect given the political divisions.
Immigration advocates have vowed to fight Trump’s policies in court and urge Congress to act to protect immigrant rights.
Implications
Trump’s immigration orders mark a dramatic departure from Biden’s policies, with immediate impacts on migrants and border communities. The administration’s stance underscores its prioritisation of border security over humanitarian concerns, setting the stage for significant legal and political battles in the months to come.
Also read: Key takeaways as Trump sworn in as 47th US president
Featured photo source: ABC news
Source: BBC
