The Trump administration announced on Monday the termination of the temporary protected status (TPS) granted to Myanmar nationals living in the United States. This decision comes even though a violent civil war continues to affect Myanmar, forcing many citizens to flee their home country.
TPS allowed Myanmar citizens to legally live and work in the U.S. while their homeland was considered unsafe due to conflict and persecution. The status protected them from deportation and provided work authorization during that period.
Despite the ongoing turmoil in Myanmar, the U.S. government declared that the conditions supporting the continuation of TPS no longer exist. This move requires Myanmar nationals to begin making plans for their departure or seek other legal immigration pathways.
A spokesperson from the administration stated:
“The current situation no longer meets the criteria for Temporary Protected Status designation, and therefore, Myanmar nationals will lose this protection.”
The decision has sparked concern among human rights groups who emphasize that the violence and instability in Myanmar persist, posing serious risks for returnees.
Author’s summary:
The U.S. ended the temporary protected status for Myanmar nationals even as civil conflict and threats to their safety continue, creating uncertainty for affected individuals.