African Union Responds To ‘Disproportionate’ U.S Travel Ban

The Trump administration’s travel ban affecting 12 countries has sparked mixed reactions, with critics calling it “disproportionate” due to the fact that many of the targeted nations are in Africa. Citing a June 1 attack in Colorado, President Donald Trump said the event highlighted the serious risks posed by the entry of foreign nationals.

Although the suspect in the attack is Egyptian, Egypt is not on the list. Countries impacted by the ban include Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, Somalia, and Sudan.

In response, the African Union acknowledged the U.S.’s right to secure its borders but urged that such actions be “balanced, evidence-based,” and respectful of the strong ties between the U.S. and Africa.

Chad reacted by suspending visa issuance for U.S. citizens, while Somalia emphasized its enduring relationship with the United States and expressed willingness to engage in discussions to address the concerns raised.