Reform Urgent for U.S. Special Immigrant Visa Program Amid Security Risks
Reforming the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program has been deemed crucial for American national security. The program, designed to support interpreters and allys from Iraq and Afghanistan, has faced severe shortcomings, endangering these individuals and their families. A recent report by the Watson Institute highlights these issues, with over 300 interpreters and family members killed since 2014.
The SIV program has long struggled with inefficiencies, under-resourcing, and delays. A report by Brown University criticized the program's management, with Noah Coburn, the lead author, highlighting its failures. Despite these concerns, no specific organization has been identified as criticizing Coburn's report. The Biden administration has now ordered a review and recommended changes, indicating a high-level commitment to addressing these issues.
The SIV program is not a drain on talent from Iraq or Afghanistan, with over 26,500 visas issued in the last seven years. Instead, it fulfills a moral obligation and supports long-term national security interests. The U.S. has a history of recruiting immigrants into its military and diplomatic services, including the SIV program, which identifies Afghans and Iraqis who have already served the U.S.
Reforming the SIV program is an urgent necessity. It is an American moral obligation and vital for national security. The Biden administration's review is a step in the right direction, and executive and legislative action is needed to ensure the safety and well-being of these allys and their families.
