Over 26 million refugees live in vulnerable situations around the world as per the United Nations. Despite the significant demand, just about 1% of the population proceeds with refugee resettlement in the USA. Of course, resettlement promises a better life—an education, a job, and all the other amenities that are taken for granted by the people.
What is the definition of a refugee?
A refugee is someone who has been compelled to escape their home country due to persecution, war, or other forms of violence. They are either unable to return home or are terrified to do so.
When refugees come to the United States to resettle, they become neighbors. They have devoted community members, hardworking students, and small business owners who give back to the country and improve the towns.
Refugees are resettled in the United States in a variety of ways.
Many countries around the world relocate refugees, including the United States.
Resettlement process
Once refugees have been cleared for resettlement, the US government collaborates with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and eight other national resettlement agencies to assist them in re-establishing their life in the United States.
Refugees may be put in a city where they have relatives or acquaintances, or where a community has formed that speaks their language or culture. The cost of living and access to medical care are two other factors to think about. Refugees, on the other hand, can live in any state they want once they become legal residents of the United States.
Getting ready to travel
Before leaving the countries where they are temporarily residing, refugees sign promissory notes promising to compensate the United States for travel expenses. They also take a program to learn about what to expect when they arrive in their new nation, including briefings on American culture, legislation, health benefits, and other important details. Before leaving, officials undertake a final screening and further security checks.
Arrival in the United States
Caseworkers from resettlement organizations such as the IRC frequently greet and welcome refugees at the airport to make their transfers as smooth as possible. The responsibility of agencies is to find suitable, inexpensive housing for refugee families, something that many of these refugees have lacked for years. Families also receive urgent support in the form of basic furniture, food, and other necessities.
Getting their bearings
Resettlement agencies collaborate with state and local governments and community organizations during the first 90 days to assist newcomers in settling into their areas.
What is the significance of refugee resettlement in the USA?
Refugee resettlement in the USA improves the national security and moral leadership in the world. USA’s long history of serving as a light of hope and safety for people all over the world, including refugees and asylum seekers, is fundamental to its identity as a country. The Statue of Liberty is the best example.
People who are fleeing persecution and violence in their home countries require safe heaven. Resettlement promotes international cooperation and encourages other countries to welcome refugees, resulting in a more hospitable world.
If a refugee is granted asylum, he or she will be able to lawfully live and work in the United States and will be entitled to apply for lawful permanent residence and citizenship in the future. However, it is vital to remember that refuge is not a permanent or guaranteed status in the United States. As a result, it is critical for refugees to apply for lawful permanent residency one year after being awarded asylum. Refugees are automatically eligible to work in the United States and do not require an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which is usually necessary.
In addition to managing benefit programs and offering general public benefits advice, agencies working for refugee resettlement in the USA provide English lessons, job training and placement, mental health assistance, juvenile, and older services, and other social service agencies.
Conclusion
Refugees make significant contributions to the United States, and they have continued to support their new communities during the COVID-19 catastrophe, with many serving on the front lines of the pandemic. Over 176,000 refugees work as healthcare personnel treating COVID-19 patients, and another 175,000 work in the food supply chain in the United States. They have also started small and large enterprises that employ and serve Americans around the country as entrepreneurs.