September 10, 2023

The UK asylum system needs immediate reform

by Amber Bauer
Protesters hold signs opposing a bill, advocating for refugee care, in front of the UK Parliament and Big Ben on a cloudy day, emphasizing grassroots support for refugees. | Support refugees across Europe

The UK’s asylum system is in a state of crisis. Despite the recent change in government, urgent reforms are needed to address the chaos and dysfunction that have plagued it for years. Although Labour has made significant strides by abolishing harmful policies like the Rwanda deportation plan and confirming that the Bibby Stockholm barge will no longer be used for accommodation after January 2025, much more needs to be done. 

Violent far-right riots in August 2024, targeting asylum seekers in hotels, people of colour, and Muslims, have only deepened the fear and uncertainty. Although these attacks were followed by peaceful counter-protests and criminal charges, many people still feel unwelcome in a country they hoped would offer safety.

The current state of the system leaves nearly 120,000 people waiting for an initial decision on their asylum claims, with thousands more stuck in permanent limbo, unable to claim asylum or be removed from the UK due to the Illegal Migration Act.

One of the most pressing challenges is the overwhelming backlog of asylum applications and appeals. Nearly 96% of those who crossed the Channel by boat in the past year are still waiting for a decision on their claims, and the backlog of appeals has almost quadrupled, reaching over 27,000. This growing backlog is compounded by a lack of safe, legal routes to the UK, forcing people to risk their lives crossing the Channel. By the end of this year, an estimated 40,300 people will have made the dangerous journey, driven by desperation and the absence of safe, alternative ways to seek safety.

The lack of safe routes is particularly concerning. Resettlement programs are operating at a fraction of previous levels, and the backlog in family reunion applications now stands at over 11,000. Thousands of refugees from high-grant countries like Afghanistan, Syria, Eritrea, and Sudan are stuck in limbo, despite the high likelihood that their asylum claims will eventually be approved. Without immediate reform, this system will continue to leave vulnerable people stranded, with their mental health and wellbeing rapidly deteriorating.

The next government must seize the opportunity to rebuild a humane, efficient, and compassionate asylum system. This includes repealing the Illegal Migration Act, restoring the right to asylum, and ensuring faster, fairer decisions for those fleeing persecution. A new legal framework is required to process asylum claims efficiently, particularly for those from high-grant countries. The government should also implement a safe routes strategy, allowing refugees to seek asylum without risking their lives. This would include reinstating resettlement programs to pre-COVID levels, processing family reunion applications within 12 weeks, and allowing child refugees to sponsor close family members.

Ultimately, the UK must shift its focus from rhetoric to meaningful action. Asylum seekers should be allowed to work after three to six months, and the system must be rebuilt on the principles of fairness, compassion, and respect. Now is the time to act and restore dignity to those seeking safety in the UK.

Author

related posts

More stories from the European refugee crisis...

Within Europe’s Refugee Crisis are human stories of immense resilience, endurance and hope. Each person’s journey is unique. Discover the inspiring people who became refugees and chose to share their story.

Perspective on Chios Island’s Inhospitable Landscape

Perspective on Chios Island’s Inhospitable Landscape

Perspective. This is the Greek island of Chios as I left on Saturday morning. Contrary to the lively capital, Chios Town, I saw how barren, inhospitable and sparsely populated the island is. A quick search says Chios has a population <31,500 people with 86% living...

Why We’re Calling for Safe and Documented Routes

Why We’re Calling for Safe and Documented Routes

What safe and documented routes to the UK exist for refugees?  Safe and documented routes are authorised immigration arrangements which permit entry to another country. There are very few safe, documented routes available for refugees to come to the UK at present....

A Tragedy You Probably Didn’t Hear About

A Tragedy You Probably Didn’t Hear About

Three little girls Asma (10), Yosru (6) and Mena (4) are laid to rest in these graves. The young sisters died in the Mediterranean on 8 April 2024. Their deaths are a tragedy you probably didn’t hear about? Their mama was one of 19 people rescued who survived the boat...

forRefugees logo

Will you stand with refugees?

Get the latest updates and ways to make a difference for refugees straight to your inbox.

You have Successfully Subscribed!

forRefugees logo

Stay connected

Subscribe to receive the forRefugees monthly email

You have Successfully Subscribed!