We must be comprehensive as well compassionate in our response to refugees, seeking an end to refugee flows but meanwhile, also helping those who are forced to flee. Although it may be tempting to turn one's back, rather than open one's door, those in need of protection must be given sanctuary. The United States has been a strong promoter of refugee protection in the past. Once again, it must take the lead role in upholding the institution of asylum. Nor should we forget that some of the poorest countries in the world have given asylum to the largest numbers of refugees.
International assistance is essential to sustain their hospitality.
In terms of gross contributions the USA is our largest donor, just ahead of Japan and the European Union. I am grateful for it and would urge that the level of support be maintained. Cutting down on international humanitarian aid would be tragic. Perhaps the saddest casualty of all would be the refugees returning home after decades in exile, to places such as Afghanistan and Mozambique. Their villages have been devastated, their homes destroyed, their fields heavily mined.