In a development drawing both domestic and international scrutiny, the United States has begun processing—and in some cases approving—asylum claims from white South Africans, citing fears over land expropriation and racial targeting.
At least 30 applicants have reportedly been approved following interviews at the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria, according to individuals familiar with the process. One applicant, a farmer who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of their case, told Reuters:
“The staff at the embassy were exceptionally friendly—I could feel they had empathy.”
The U.S. administration and embassy officials in Pretoria have yet to comment or provide detailed figures regarding the number of interviews or asylum grants.
Asylum Policy Under Scrutiny
The move has stirred debate in both countries as it touches on key themes in U.S. immigration policy, particularly who qualifies for asylum protection under international law. Traditionally, asylum has been granted to individuals facing persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
South Africa’s controversial land reform agenda—which includes proposals for the expropriation of land without compensation—has been at the center of growing political tension. Critics argue the policy disproportionately targets white farmers, while the government insists it’s a necessary step to address the historical injustices of apartheid-era land dispossession.
Elon Musk Sparks Global Attention
International attention on the issue intensified after billionaire Elon Musk, who was born in South Africa, accused the government of racism in a widely shared social media post. Musk claimed that land reforms were being used as a tool to unfairly dispossess white South Africans—charges the South African government has strongly denied.
The row has deepened diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and South Africa, which have already been strained over South Africa’s foreign policy stance, including its position on the Ukraine war and its alignment with BRICS nations.
Experts Warn of Political Fallout
Immigration experts warn that granting asylum based on perceived racial persecution—particularly in a democratic state like South Africa—could set a complex legal and diplomatic precedent.
“Asylum decisions carry geopolitical weight,” said Dr. Lena Davis, a senior analyst in immigration law. “This move by the U.S. could be interpreted as a rebuke of South Africa’s domestic policies, which has the potential to sour already fragile diplomatic relations.”
Despite the approvals, U.S. authorities have not confirmed whether this signals a shift in immigration policy or if these cases are being handled on an exceptional basis.
