From the front desk of Thone Dari Maung, Assistant Director
May 9, 2026

A recent immigration case shows how difficult it can be to win asylum even after serious abuse. In
Matter of D-G-B-L- (2026), a woman from Mexico explained that she had been abused and threatened
by her former partner before fleeing to the United States in 2023. Although the court recognized that
she had suffered severe harm, her case was still denied.

The Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) ruled that there was not enough evidence showing that her
ex-partner was still interested in harming her if she returned to Mexico. According to the court, there
was no “objective evidence” proving that he would look for her or even know she had returned. In
simple terms, the court’s position was: “Yes, you were harmed before, but can you prove the danger
still exists today?”

This case is an important reminder for asylum applicants. Showing past abuse or threats may not
always be enough. Applicants may also need to provide evidence that the danger is ongoing and that
the persecutor still has an interest in harming them.

Some important questions applicants should be prepared for include:

● Does anyone in your home country believe the persecutor is still looking for you?
● Did anyone provide letters or statements supporting your fear?
● Why do you believe the danger still exists today?

Careful preparation, strong supporting documents, and updated evidence can make a major difference
in an asylum case.