Washington: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is poised to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for South Sudanese nationals, a humanitarian provision that has shielded them from deportation and allowed work authorization for over ten years, CBS News reported on Wednesday, citing DHS officials.
TPS was initially granted to South Sudanese nationals following years of civil war and widespread instability after the country’s independence in 2011. The designation provided a legal safeguard for individuals who had fled conflict and sought refuge in the United States, allowing them to live and work without fear of removal.
The impending decision by DHS signals a major policy shift, raising concerns about the fate of thousands of South Sudanese immigrants who have established lives, families, and communities in the United States under the protection of TPS. While specific timelines and transition measures have not been publicly released, the termination could expose many individuals to deportation proceedings unless they qualify for alternative immigration relief.
Humanitarian advocates warn that ending TPS for South Sudanese nationals may disrupt long-term social and economic stability for affected individuals, many of whom have contributed significantly to their local communities. The decision underscores ongoing debates over U.S. immigration policy, balancing national regulatory frameworks with humanitarian responsibilities.
The DHS’s planned move reflects its assessment that conditions in South Sudan may no longer meet the criteria for TPS designation. However, the situation remains fluid, and affected individuals and advocacy groups are likely to seek guidance and potential legal avenues to maintain status or pursue alternative protections.
As the U.S. prepares to implement this policy change, the coming weeks are expected to bring intense discussions among policymakers, legal experts, and immigrant communities regarding the broader humanitarian implications and the practical steps for those affected.