World Immigration News

Mahmood’s Immigration Plan Breaks Labour’s Promises

Release Date: 2025-11-21
Media: Human Rights Watch
Summary: The UK government’s new asylum and returns policy has created deep fear and uncertainty among refugees who have already been granted protection. Presented as a move to “restore order,” the policy marks a sharp departure from Labour’s earlier promises of a humane and pragmatic approach. It introduces a system in which refugee protection becomes temporary, conditional, and constantly reassessed.

The central reform — replacing refugee status with a 30-month “temporary protection” — means refugees must undergo repeated reviews and may lose guaranteed family reunion. A second major change extends the path to permanent residency from five years to twenty, with an additional “earned settlement” test. These measures leave refugees in long-term insecurity and undermine their ability to rebuild stable lives.

The author compares this approach to Australia’s failed temporary protection system, which caused severe psychological harm until it was reversed in 2023. They argue the UK risks repeating the same mistakes.

In addition, research shows that refugees significantly benefit the UK economy when supported with language training, early employment, and legal aid — while the new policy is both morally harmful and economically counterproductive. The government’s justification that it will reduce the asylum backlog is unconvincing, as repeated reassessments would only increase administrative burdens.

The policy echoes far-right narratives that frame migration as a threat and encourage a hostile environment. Instead of creating safe and legal routes to reach the UK, the government is closing existing pathways and restricting family visas.

The author warns that the Labour government is abandoning its principles, risking a repeat of injustices like the Windrush scandal. Refugees are not burdens but people seeking safety who can make major contributions to society. By pursuing punitive policies for political gain, Labour risks empowering divisive forces and betraying its long-standing humanitarian values.
Tags: United Kingdom

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