Trump Administration Moves to Ban Foreign Student Entry to Harvard
The Trump administration issued an executive order to block nearly all foreign students from entering the US to attend Harvard University, citing national security concerns and Harvard's alleged unsuitability. This escalates a dispute where Harvard defied federal demands on policy changes and student records. Harvard condemned the move as illegal retaliation, vowing to protect its international students, who form a significant part of its student body.
Unpacked:
The executive order singles out Harvard due to alleged national security concerns and claims that Harvard obstructed federal investigations into illegal activities and safety threats. The administration argues that Harvard is “no longer a trustworthy steward” of international student programs, citing rising crime rates and claims of campus discrimination, though Harvard disputes these allegations.
International students make up about a quarter of Harvard’s student body. Banning new foreign students and potentially revoking some current visas could significantly disrupt Harvard’s academic and cultural environment, reduce diversity, and impact research, while also affecting the university’s global standing and finances.
Trump invoked a broad federal law allowing the president to block foreigners whose entry is deemed “detrimental to the interests of the United States.” He previously used this authority for travel bans targeting specific countries, such as the controversial “Muslim ban” from his first term.
Harvard has condemned the order as illegal retaliation, asserting it violates their First Amendment rights and is an attempt to suppress dissent. The university vows to defend its international students and disputes the administration’s claims regarding campus safety and discrimination.