Washington, D.C. – Today’s Supreme Court ruling allowing the Trump Administration to reinstate policies that turn back asylum seekers at the U.S. border revives a dangerous approach that places vulnerable individuals at serious risk, including families and unaccompanied children seeking safety.
Past implementation of similar policies resulted in widespread harm, including prolonged exposure to unsafe conditions in border regions, increased risk of trafficking and violence, and family separation. Children—particularly those traveling alone—faced heightened dangers and were often deprived of critical protections.
In response to today’s ruling, KIND President Wendy Young said:
“The Supreme Court’s decision opens the door once again to restrictive border measures that endanger those seeking protection, especially children. We have seen the consequences of these policies before: asylum seekers stranded in dangerous border areas where they are exposed to violence, exploitation, and coercion by cartels and traffickers.
“These risks are especially acute for children. Families may become separated under chaotic and dangerous conditions, and unaccompanied children are left without the protection of a safe caregiver, increasing their vulnerability to abuse and trafficking.
“The United States has a legal and moral obligation to ensure that those fleeing danger, including children, can access protection, and to not return the most vulnerable to serious harm.”
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Media Contact: Megan McKenna, mmckenna@supportkind.org, 202-631-9990