UN Urges Staff to Carry IDs Amid Heightened US Immigration Scrutiny

The United Nations has instructed its staff members to carry identification, including UN IDs and visa documentation, amid concerns over increased scrutiny by US immigration authorities. The directive underlines the importance of readiness, although the likelihood of needing such documents remains low.

In an unprecedented move, the United Nations has instructed its staff to carry their UN IDs alongside copies of passports and visas in New York, anticipating potential requests for identification by local authorities.

Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, reiterated at a press briefing that this serves as a reminder for staff to have their identification ready, although he mentioned it's unheard of in recent memory. The UN note emphasized the necessity of carrying these documents due to heightened scrutiny from US immigration authorities.

This development coincides with increased measures under the Trump administration targeting various visa holders, even those legally present, for activities perceived as conflicting with US foreign policy. UN staff are advised to contact relevant authorities if detained.

(With inputs from agencies.)