Trump’s move to block foreign students threatens Harvard’s Kennedy School

Oscar Escobar, who at 35 became the youngest elected mayor in his Colombian hometown in 2023, earned a spot at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government a program designed for future global leaders like him. However, due to recent actions by the Trump administration, Escobar may be among the last international students able to attend the Kennedy School for the foreseeable future.

Last month, the Department of Homeland Security moved to revoke Harvard’s ability to enroll foreign students and demanded that those already enrolled either transfer or lose their legal status. The government accused Harvard of promoting violence, antisemitism, and collaborating with the Chinese Communist Party. In early June, President Donald Trump reinforced this stance by banning entry to foreign nationals intending to study at Harvard and instructed the State Department to consider revoking visas of current students. Trump claimed Harvard tolerated campus crime and posed national security risks due to its connections with China.

Harvard has challenged these orders, calling them illegal and retaliatory for resisting government control over its administration and curriculum. The university maintains it is addressing concerns about antisemitism and campus safety. A federal judge has temporarily blocked the orders while legal challenges proceed, but if upheld, the consequences for Harvard especially the Kennedy School would be significant.

Over the past five years, more than half of Kennedy School students have been international, representing over 100 countries, making it Harvard’s most globally diverse school. Nicholas Burns, a Kennedy School professor and former U.S. diplomat, emphasized that this international presence is deliberate, reflecting the real world.

The Kennedy School boasts many notable international alumni, including former leaders such as Felipe Calderon of Mexico, Pierr of Canada, and Maia Sandu of Moldova. Sandu, who became Moldova’s president in 2020, has become a prominent voice opposing Russian influence and advocating for EU membership.

Supporters argue that foreign students enhance U.S. "soft power" a strategy of promoting values like democracy through cultural influence rather than force, a concept developed by former Kennedy School dean Joseph Nye. Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, a Kennedy graduate, credits American culture for shaping his worldview, influenced by his love for American music.

The Kennedy School has faced controversies regarding admissions and guest speakers, notably in 2022 when a fellowship was withdrawn from Kenneth Roth, former Human Rights Watch director, allegedly due to pressure over accusations of anti-Israel bias. The school later reversed the decision after criticism.

As Escobar graduated in May, he reflected on the bittersweet nature of the moment, recognizing the threat these policies pose to future international students and the school’s mission.