Hogan Lovells' pro bono initiative helps Afghan refugees secure asylum and reunite families

In the fall of 2021, Hogan Lovells launched a pro bono initiative in response to the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan by representing Afghans seeking immigration relief in the United States. Among the project’s notable successes, associate Kayla Ghantous of the firm’s Boston Office assisted a human rights defender, political activist, and former Afghan government employee who had been targeted by the Taliban and went into hiding after the Taliban’s return to power. Ghantous initially sought humanitarian parole for her client’s entry into the United States when the United States government evacuated her client under Operation Allies Welcome. After two years of dedicated representation, Ghantous was successful in securing asylum for her client, who now safely lives in the United States. Ghantous now seeks to secure permanent immigration status for her client and their spouse.

In addition to direct asylum support, attorneys in the firm’s Boston office also volunteer to help Afghan asylees seeking reunification with family members still remaining in Afghanistan. Among those volunteers from the firm’s Boston Office are Alex Aber, Alexandra Bailey, Maria Durant and Rachel Record.