The African Union (AU) has criticized the move by U.S President Donald Trump’s administration to impose travel restrictions against seven African countries.
In a statement dated Thursday, June 5, 2025, the Union urged Trump’s administration to be fair and make judgments based on evidence, even as it exercises its sovereign right to protect its borders and ensure citizens’ security.
“While we respect the sovereign right of nations to protect their borders and citizens, we urge the U.S. to do so in a fair, evidence-based manner that honors the longstanding partnership between the United States and Africa,” the statement read in part.
Trump Criticized for His Travel Ban
According to the Commission, these travels ban measures may negatively impact people-to-people ties, educational exchanges, commercial engagement, and the broader diplomatic relations that have been carefully nurtured over decades.
The Commission noted that Africa and the United States share mutual interests in promoting peace, prosperity, and global cooperation.
Also Read: Trump Issues New Travel Ban Targeting 10 African Countries
As such, the African Union Commission has urged the U.S. Administration to adopt a more consultative approach and engage in constructive dialogue with the concerned countries, while also supporting efforts that foster understanding, address concerns, and enhance cooperation between Africa and the United States.
“The Commission appeals for transparent communication, and where necessary, collaborative efforts to address any underlying issues that may have informed this decision,” the Commission stated.
Countries Affected by Travel Ban
The Commission’s statement comes hours after President Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing a travel ban on citizens from twelve countries and partial restrictions on seven others, effective June 9, 2025.
The move is part of an Executive Order he signed on January 20, 2025, aimed at addressing national security and public safety concerns by restricting entry from countries deemed to have inadequate vetting processes or high risks of terrorism.
Also Read: Elon Musk Slams Trump’s New Bill on Tariffs
Countries fully banned (12) include: Afghanistan, Myanmar (Burma), Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Citizens from these countries are barred from entering the U.S. as immigrants or nonimmigrants (e.g., tourists, students).
Countries with Partial Restrictions (7): Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. These countries face suspensions of specific visa categories.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
