US siblings become NZ refugees as more than 20 Americans claim asylum
New Zealand has granted refugee status to two American siblings due to fears of them being sent back to Jordan, where they faced abuse. This case is part of a broader trend of over 20 Americans seeking asylum in New Zealand since 2020.
Why it matters
The case highlights rare instances of citizens from developed nations seeking asylum abroad due to complex legal and safety concerns regarding domestic and international family dynamics.
Government figures show more than 20 Americans have applied for asylum in New Zealand since 2020 - and at least one family was accepted.
Failed US appeals have centred on fears of gun crime, the environment and political climate.
Two American asylum claims of a brother and sister were successfully appealed, because of concerns their dual US/Jordan nationalities would lead them into harm.
Their Jordanian mother had been granted refugee status in New Zealand after she was repeatedly assaulted by her husband while living here, and treated as a servant by his extended family while living in Jordan.
She did not have US citizenship and so could not move there with her 11-year-old son and seven-year-old daughter. She and her husband had divorced, and she had custody of their children.
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