UK Revokes Legal Duty for Asylum Seeker Support, Drawing Criticism
The UK is revoking its legal duty to support asylum seekers, making assistance discretionary. This policy shift will end housing and financial aid for some, drawing criticism from charities.
Overview
The UK government is revoking its legal obligation to provide support to asylum seekers, transitioning to a discretionary assistance model.
This significant policy change means certain asylum seekers will no longer be eligible for housing and financial support.
The new approach marks a sweeping shift in how the UK manages its asylum system and responsibilities towards those seeking refuge.
British charities, including the Refugee Council, have strongly criticized the government's new asylum policy announcement.
Critics express serious concerns that the policy changes could potentially fuel racism and increase instances of violence against asylum seekers.
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FAQ
The UK government says the changes are intended to reduce irregular immigration and make the asylum system less attractive to those seeking to enter the country without proper authorization. The reforms are also aimed at addressing concerns about the rising number of asylum applications and the cost of supporting asylum seekers.
Under the new policy, certain asylum seekers will no longer be guaranteed housing or financial support. The length of refugee status will be reduced from five years to 30 months, and those granted asylum will have to wait 20 years before applying for long-term residency, compared to five years previously.
Charities like the Refugee Council have strongly criticized the new policy, warning that it could increase racism and violence against asylum seekers and will not deter people from seeking refuge in the UK.
The UK's new asylum policy is modeled after Denmark's strict system, which is known for its tough stance on asylum seekers and limited support for those granted refugee status.
The new policy makes it easier to remove those already in the country whose asylum claims are rejected, but specific details on removal procedures are not provided in the article.
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