Human rights advocates are sounding the alarm over potential repercussions for trafficking survivors if a new asylum bill proposed by Shabana Mahmood is enacted. The Home Secretary’s plan to eliminate the obligation to allow recognized victims to stay in the UK during their recovery has sparked outrage among campaigners. The Immigration and Asylum Bill, set to be presented to Members of Parliament on Monday, includes significant changes to the asylum system.
Among the measures outlined in the bill are provisions to revoke judges’ authority in removal appeals and introduce a means-tested fee of £10,000 for successful asylum applicants. Specifically, the proposal seeks to remove the government’s responsibility to grant continued residency to confirmed trafficking victims in cases where it is deemed essential for their recovery.
Advocates argue that the existing law is vulnerable to exploitation, but charities are urging Parliament to reject the bill. Kamena Dorling, policy director at the Helen Bamber Foundation, emphasized the importance of upholding protections for trafficking survivors in line with the UK’s international obligations. Dorling expressed concerns over the limited number of recognized victims currently granted permission to remain in the country, warning that eliminating this safeguard would leave vulnerable individuals in a state of uncertainty and fear.
The proposed changes have raised fears that weakening protections for recognized victims could inadvertently aid traffickers in exploiting vulnerable individuals. Organizations such as Anti-Slavery International, the Anti Trafficking and Labour Exploitation Unit (ATLEU), and ECPAT UK have joined the Helen Bamber Foundation in voicing opposition to the bill.
Responding to criticisms, a Home Office spokesperson emphasized that the Immigration and Asylum Bill aims to reform human rights legislation to safeguard those in need while combatting abuse of the asylum system. The spokesperson highlighted forthcoming initiatives to establish safe and legal pathways for refugees, with enhanced protections for victims of exploitation, particularly children.
Shabana Mahmood, outlining her vision for the asylum system, stressed the importance of maintaining public trust in a fair and controlled process that is immune to abuse. Her objective is to create an asylum system that not only meets current needs but also ensures longevity for future generations.