International relations expert, Dr. Ishmael Hlovor has urged Ghanaians and other African nations to view recent American immigrant visa restrictions through a strategic and global lens, pointing out that Africa must invest in its own growth to command respect worldwide.
Speaking on ABC In The Morning, on Thursday, January 15, 2026, Dr. Hlovor explained that the United States’ visa and immigration policies are shaped by internal economic and security pressures, not necessarily targeted actions against Ghana or other countries.
“What the rest of the world must come to recognize is that there is always a limit to what a superpower can take, as its currency and economy begin to feel the heat of supporting the global agenda,” he said.
He noted that the difficulties surrounding American visa processing in Ghana are also a function of demand, pointing out that a large number of Ghanaians seek to travel to or settle in the United States each year. According to him, this high volume naturally places strain on embassy systems and screening processes.
Dr. Hlovor cautioned against any form of retaliation by Ghana, describing such an approach as counterproductive. “I will suggest that we do not retaliate; not out of fear, but out of strategy,” he stated, adding that diplomacy remains the most effective response in managing international relations.
He further called on the Government of Ghana to engage U.S. authorities more assertively on improving operational conditions at American embassies, particularly in relation to visa processing. “It is important that the government put pressure on America to improve conditions within their embassies for us,” he said.
Beyond the immediate visa concerns, Dr. Hlovor emphasized the broader developmental challenge facing African countries. He argued that respect, authority and dignity on the global stage cannot be demanded but must be built through sustained growth and self-reliance. “As African countries within the global south, the only way we will achieve some level of authority and restore dignity is to grow and develop ourselves,” he stressed.
