Migration and Asylum

In the United States today, “essential” workers are more likely to be immigrants, and many of them are undocumented. Given all that these people have risked to keep society afloat, they deserve far more support.

As our grantees, partners, and allies work tirelessly to reduce the damage brought on by the pandemic, we at Open Society are committed to long-term reforms that will address the structural injustices worsened by the virus.

The best way to support and empower refugees in a time of crisis is to recognize that they know best how to address the needs of their communities.

The government of Italy’s COVID-19 stimulus proposal includes measures to protect migrant laborers working in some of the country’s most important industries. While this is welcome news, more is needed.

To confront the enormous challenges raised by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Open Society Foundations are committing more than $130 million to support those who are most at risk.

The Greek island of Lesvos remains at the frontlines of refugee arrivals to Europe. Currently, more than 21,000 refugees are held there. A grassroots group called the Starfish Foundation is working to improve the lives of locals and refugees.

Migration isn’t new, but rarely before has it been as politicized as it is today. To reach a more sustainable equilibrium, governments must craft policy that balances migrants’ rights with the needs of local communities.

A rumored cut in the number of refugees accepted into the United States is yet another example of how the Trump administration is failing to uphold basic values of decency and humanity, hurting the United States in the process.