Asylum is a legal protection granted to individuals who have fled their home countries due to persecution or the fear of persecution. It is a critical protection for people facing life-threatening situations and is an essential element of the international human rights system. In many countries around the world, narco threats have become a significant issue, with people facing constant danger and insecurity.
One high-profile individual who has reportedly received narco threats is Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time. Messi was born and raised in Argentina, a country that has been plagued by drug-related violence and crime for many years. According to reports, Messi and his family have received multiple threats from narco-traffickers, and they are said to live in constant fear of being kidnapped or harmed.
The narco threats against Messi and his family have brought into sharp focus the dangers that many people face in countries where drug cartels and organized crime are prevalent. It is a reminder of the importance of asylum as a legal protection for those who are at risk of persecution or harm in their home countries.
Asylum is a fundamental human right recognized under international law, and it allows individuals to seek protection in another country if they are at risk of persecution or harm in their home country. To qualify for asylum, individuals must demonstrate that they have a well-founded fear of persecution based on factors such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Narco threats may qualify as a basis for seeking asylum, depending on the individual circumstances of the case.
The process of seeking asylum can be complex and challenging, and there are many factors to consider when making the decision to seek asylum in another country. In Messi’s case, seeking asylum in the United States may be an option, given the country’s established asylum system and Messi’s high profile as a professional athlete.
The narco threats against Lionel Messi and his family underscore the importance of asylum as a legal protection for individuals facing persecution and harm in their home countries. As we explore Messi’s situation further in this blog post, we will examine the challenges and potential opportunities for seeking asylum in the US and what this may mean for individuals facing similar circumstances in countries around the world.
The Threat
Early in the morning on March 2, 2023, a shop owned by Lionel Messi’s in-laws in Rosario was targeted in a violent attack by a group of drug traffickers. The attackers opened fire on the shop and left a message at the scene, which was dedicated to the Argentine soccer superstar.
The message read, “Messi we are waiting for you, (the mayor of Rosario, Pablo) Javkin is also a drug dealer, he will not take care of you.” This incident underscores the persistent narco threats that Messi and his family have faced in their home country of Argentina.
Rosario, where Messi owns a house and regularly spends Christmas holidays with his family, is known for its high levels of violence, particularly in relation to drug gangs. Messi’s prominence as a global sports icon makes him a prime target for these types of threats.
The incident also raises questions about the potential for Messi to seek asylum in another country, given the ongoing danger he and his family face in Argentina. Seeking asylum can be a complex process, but it offers critical legal protection for those who are at risk of persecution or harm in their home countries.
Seeking asylum in the United States
It is important to note that seeking asylum in the US is a complex process that requires a thorough understanding of the legal requirements and procedures involved. If Messi ever decides to seek asylum in the United States, he will need to take the following steps:
Entering the US: Messi would need to first enter the US, either through a valid visa or by crossing the border and seeking asylum at a port of entry.
Filing an application: Once in the US, Messi would need to file an asylum application with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application would need to be submitted within one year of arriving in the US unless there are exceptional circumstances that prevent him from doing so.
Screening interview: After filing the application, Messi would be required to attend a screening interview with a USCIS officer. During this interview, he would be asked to provide information about his identity, background, and the reasons why he is seeking asylum.
Asylum hearing: If the USCIS officer finds that Messi has a credible fear of persecution, his case will be referred to an immigration judge for a hearing. At the hearing, Messi would need to present evidence and arguments to support his claim for asylum.
Decision: After the hearing, the immigration judge will make a decision on whether Messi qualifies for asylum. If the judge grants asylum, Messi would be allowed to stay in the US and eventually apply for permanent residency.
It is worth noting that the asylum process can take many months or even years to complete, and there are many factors that can affect the outcome of a case. It is also important to seek the assistance of an experienced immigration attorney who can help navigate the complex legal requirements and advocate on behalf of the individual seeking asylum.
Get help with asylum
While the possibility of Lionel Messi seeking asylum in the United States due to narco threats cannot be ruled out, it is important to note that this option may not be available to everyone and can come with its own set of challenges. It is crucial for anyone facing persecution or threats to their safety to seek professional legal advice and explore all available options before making any decisions. The safety and well-being of individuals must always be a top priority, and it is essential that they have access to the necessary resources and support to navigate the asylum process successfully.
At Rebecca Black Immigration, we understand the challenges and complexities of seeking asylum in the United States. Our team of experienced immigration attorneys is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate legal representation to individuals who are fleeing persecution or threats to their safety.
We can provide a range of asylum services, including:
- Assessing eligibility for asylum
- Preparing and filing asylum applications
- Representing clients in asylum interviews
- Appearing at asylum hearings
- Appealing negative asylum decisions
- Providing guidance and support throughout the asylum process
Our attorneys have a deep understanding of the asylum process and the legal requirements for a successful asylum claim. We work closely with clients to gather all the necessary evidence and documentation to support their cases and present a compelling argument for asylum.
At Rebecca Black Immigration, we recognize the importance of ensuring that our clients feel supported and informed throughout the asylum process. We provide clear and transparent communication, and we always prioritize our client’s best interests.
If you or a loved one is in need of asylum services, please contact us today to schedule a consultation. We are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to help our clients achieve safety and security in the United States.
