Matter of D-G-E-A- & N-G-G-E-
29 I&N Dec. 570 (BIA 2026)
2026
Holding
(1) Disapproval of or opposition to criminal gangs is not sufficient to establish a political opinion under the INA. (2) To establish a political opinion, an alien must have an actual or imputed belief or conviction regarding a discrete cause tied to a government of a country, including a de facto government.
Practitioner Note
Anti-gang sentiment, without a nexus to governmental authority, does not constitute a political opinion for asylum purposes. The political opinion ground requires a political belief, not mere personal opposition to criminals.
This summary describes what the tribunal held. Always verify the citation and read the full decision before relying on it. Case law changes — confirm this decision has not been overruled, limited, or superseded. Not legal advice.