Somali migrants in the US say they would rather hide than return to Somalia
Somali migrants in the United States have spoken to the BBC. Many say they could lose their legal status but prefer to live in hiding rather than return to Somalia, citing security concerns. US officials say cases are under review.
The BBC has spoken with Somali migrants in the United States who fear returning home. Some sources said hundreds of people in states with large Somali populations, especially Minnesota, are seeing their protection status reviewed. They say security conditions in Somalia make return dangerous.
Washington has begun assessing the conditions for renewing the temporary protection programme. Officials in some states report rising issues around family reunification and housing. Figures on Somali Americans' role in the labour market, healthcare and education are also under review.
Immigration lawyers say authorities back home cannot offer adequate security guarantees. The United Nations has described humanitarian conditions in parts of Somalia as critical, citing drought and conflict. Forthcoming administrative decisions in coming weeks will directly affect thousands of families.
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