SILVER SPRING, Maryland – The Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc. (CLINIC), expresses grave concern over the Board of Immigration Appeals' decision in Matter of K‑E‑S‑G‑, which narrows the scope of who qualifies for asylum based on gender-based persecution.

"As an organization with Catholic roots, CLINIC is deeply troubled by this decision," said Anna Gallagher, executive director of CLINIC. "Catholic social teaching upholds the inherent dignity and worth of every human person, particularly those who are marginalized or vulnerable. Women who face violence, oppression, and social invisibility simply because of their gender must be protected — not turned away."

The ruling found that the proposed particular social groups of "Salvadoran women" or "Salvadoran women viewed as property" are not valid bases for protection under U.S. asylum law — denying protection to vulnerable individuals fleeing societies that systemically discriminate against and devalue women.

"The Board's ruling represents a stark retreat from the humanitarian spirit at the core of the asylum system," said Elizabeth Carlson, senior attorney at CLINIC. "In many countries, including El Salvador, women suffer disproportionately from domestic abuse, sexual violence, and societal structures that strip them of autonomy and agency. Asylum law must reflect this reality by allowing women to seek refuge when they face this persecution and when their governments are unwilling or unable to protect them."

CLINIC calls on policymakers, courts, and immigration adjudicators to apply asylum law as generously and compassionately as possible, in accordance with both international human rights standards and the principles of Catholic social teaching.

"At a time when gender-based violence continues to escalate globally, the U.S. must not abandon those who seek safety and dignity," Gallagher continued. "We urge the administration to reconsider policies and interpretations that close the door on women fleeing persecution — and to instead embrace an asylum system rooted in justice, compassion, and the protection of human life."