Human rights organizations have raised concerns that trafficking survivors could face severe consequences if Shabana Mahmood’s latest asylum legislation is passed. Critics are outraged by the Home Secretary’s proposal to eliminate the legal obligation for recognized victims to stay in the UK for their recovery. The Immigration and Asylum Bill, set to be presented to MPs on Monday, includes significant changes to the asylum system.
One of the key aspects of the bill is the removal of judges’ authority to decide on deportation appeals, along with the introduction of a means-tested £10,000 fee for successful asylum applicants. Mahmood’s plan also involves revoking the government’s responsibility to grant leave to remain for confirmed trafficking victims if their stay is deemed necessary for their recovery.
Advocates argue that the current legislation’s loopholes are frequently exploited, but charities are urging Parliament to reject the bill. Kamena Dorling, the policy director at the Helen Bamber Foundation, emphasized that removing this protection could jeopardize the UK’s international obligations to trafficking survivors and ultimately aid traffickers in exploiting vulnerable individuals.
Under the existing system, recognized victims may receive leave to remain to aid in their recovery, pursue compensation claims, or assist in legal proceedings. Dorling expressed concerns about the limited number of trafficking survivors granted this leave, highlighting the potential consequences of eliminating this protection.
The foundation, along with other organizations such as Anti-Slavery International, ATLEU, and ECPAT UK, has sounded the alarm regarding the proposed changes. In response, a Home Office spokesperson stated that the Immigration and Asylum Bill aims to enhance protections for victims, particularly vulnerable children, while cracking down on asylum system abuse.
Mahmood, outlining her strategy, emphasized the need for a fair and controlled asylum system that prevents abuse. Her objective is to establish an asylum system that will endure for future generations while offering sanctuary to those genuinely in need.
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