US Suspends Asylum Processing for Togolese Nationals, sparking Government Criticism
the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced on December 2, 2025, the immediate suspension of processing for asylum applications and certain residency permits for citizens of 19 countries deemed “high risk,” including Togo. The decision has ignited debate regarding Togo’s international standing and the government’s ability to advocate for its citizens abroad.
The USCIS notice states that all pending applications from nationals of the listed countries will undergo comprehensive re-examination, even those previously slated for approval without an interview. This will likely result in mandatory interviews for many Togolese applicants, considerably increasing processing times.
The US governance cites enhanced national security protocols as the rationale for the stricter vetting process, impacting asylum claims, status renewals, and specific residency permit categories.
Political analyst and June 6 Movement (M66) collaborator, Dany Ayida, views the decision as a serious indictment. “Togo is being considered a rogue state,” Ayida stated, adding that Togolese leadership has failed to effectively represent the interests of its citizens to the US administration. He believes the measure demonstrates “the inability of the Togolese government to defend the interests of its citizens abroad” and signals a decline in Lomé’s diplomatic influence.
The suspension creates important uncertainty for Togolese individuals in the US seeking asylum, renewing thier legal status, or transitioning between immigration categories. Families already facing prolonged periods of administrative limbo may experience further hardship due to the anticipated delays.
Notably, Togo’s immediate neighbors – Ghana, Benin, and Burkina faso – were not included on the list, despite ongoing instability in Burkina Faso. Within West and Central Africa,Guinea-Bissau,Sierra Leone,and Chad,all located in the sahel region,were the only other countries cited.
Several Togolese observers have expressed surprise at the inclusion of Togo,suggesting the decision reflects a negative evaluation of the country’s governance rather than a specific security threat. The move is highly likely to intensify existing criticism of the Togolese government’s policies and its relationship wiht international partners.
