The State Department announced a 'historic' new program to allow private American citizens to help Afghan refugees resettle in the U.S.
ABC News Chief Global Affairs Correspondent Martha Raddatz explains what role the U.S. has played in Afghanistan in recent years and why the Taliban wants to take over the country.The State Department on Monday announced a"historic" new program to allow private American citizens to help Afghan refugees resettle in the U.S.
This new program"harnesses this outpouring of support and enables individuals to become directly involved in the welcome and integration of our new neighbors," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement, and"showcases the powerful role that individuals can play in coming together to welcome and integrate Afghans into American society, reflecting our spirit of goodwill and generosity.
After an"outpouring of support for Afghan refugees," the program is a"concrete way to translate this support into immediate opportunities to welcome more Afghans," said Sarah Krause, executive director of the Community Sponsorship Hub."By offering opportunities to sponsor a family, this program will create enduring bonds between Afghans and the communities that welcome them.
"With that said, it's imperative that it is implemented thoughtfully and with sufficient institutional support. We want to make sure that both refugees and the Americans who welcome them feel positioned for successful outcomes," added O'Mara Vignarajah.Blinken said the State Department plans to launch a pilot program to expand the private sponsorship to other refugees next year.
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