Reports of Inhumane Treatment of Asylum-Seekers in Texas Go Against Basic Principles of Humanity and Demand Immediate Attention

“The actions described – from withholding water to pushing migrant children into the river – are unconscionable, going against the basic principles of humanity, but also international obligations to asylum-seekers.”

Washington, D.C. (July 18, 2023) – Save the Children strongly condemns the recently reported “inhumane” treatment of asylum seekers – including children and pregnant women – along the border in Texas.

“The reports coming out of Texas demand immediate attention.

To hear of asylum-seeking children and families being so blatantly mistreated as they attempt to seek safety in our country is profoundly distressing,” said Christy Gleason, Vice President of Policy, Advocacy and Campaigns at Save the Children. “The actions described – from withholding water to pushing migrant children into the river – are unconscionable, going against the basic principles of humanity, but also international obligations to asylum-seekers.”

Asylum-seekers must be protected, and be treated legally and humanely, with dignity and respect. Save the Children has long urged the U.S. government and its officials at all levels to uphold the rights of asylum-seeking children and families, most of whom are fleeing unimaginable violence and disasters.

“We call on Congress and relevant authorities to conduct thorough oversight and investigations into these reported incidents in Texas,” continued Gleason. “The safety and welfare of children and families, regardless of their immigration status, should be paramount.”

Save the Children – together with its US political advocacy arm, Save the Children Action Network – will continue to urge all relevant stakeholders, including the state and federal authorities, to prioritize the protection and well-being of asylum seekers, particularly children and pregnant women, and to take all necessary measures to ensure their safety and access to essential services. And, in partnership with a network of shelters and social service agencies across the length of the U.S.-southern border, Save the Children stands ready to welcome migrant children and families, and support any increased humanitarian needs that may arise.

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