Opinion ID: 789446
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Resolution of Qu's Case

Text: 29 We agree with the BIA's decision in In re Y__T__L__ and hold that when a person is involuntarily sterilized a form of harm occurs that constitutes permanent and continuing persecution. Because the persecution is ongoing, we hold that it is not possible, as a matter of law, for conditions to change or relocation to occur that would eliminate a well-founded fear of persecution. Accordingly we hold that when an applicant suffers past persecution by means of an involuntary sterilization in accordance with a country's coercive population control policy, he is entitled by virtue of that fact alone to withholding of removal. 30 Involuntary sterilization irrevocably strips persons of one of the important liberties we possess as humans: our reproductive freedom. Therefore, one who has suffered involuntary sterilization, either directly or because of the sterilization of a spouse, is entitled, without more, to withholding of removal. The BIA erred in not granting Qu this relief. 31 Petition GRANTED.