Human rights organizations have raised concerns that survivors of trafficking could face repercussions if a new asylum bill proposed by Shabana Mahmood is enacted. The bill, set to be presented to Members of Parliament on Monday, aims to overhaul the asylum system significantly.
One of the key elements of the bill is the removal of the legal obligation to allow recognized victims to stay in the UK for their recovery. Additionally, the proposed legislation includes provisions to limit judges’ authority on removal appeals and introduce a means-tested fee of £10,000 for successful asylum applicants.
While the Home Secretary argues that the current laws are frequently exploited, charities are urging Parliament to reject the bill. According to Kamena Dorling, policy director at the Helen Bamber Foundation, the government’s move to eliminate protection for trafficking survivors raises questions about its commitment to international obligations. Dorling emphasized that a system penalizing survivors would only facilitate trafficking and hinder justice for victims.
Under the existing framework, victims of trafficking may be granted leave to remain to aid in their recovery, support compensation claims, or assist in legal proceedings. Dorling expressed concerns about the insufficient number of trafficking survivors granted such leave, highlighting the potential dire consequences of removing this safeguard.
The Helen Bamber Foundation, along with Anti-Slavery International, the Anti Trafficking and Labour Exploitation Unit (ATLEU), and ECPAT UK, have joined forces to oppose the bill. In response, a Home Office spokesperson stated that the Immigration and Asylum Bill aims to enhance protections for victims while cracking down on asylum system abuse. The government also announced plans to introduce new safe and legal routes for refugees.
Shabana Mahmood emphasized the importance of maintaining a fair and trustworthy asylum system while closing existing loopholes. Her vision includes creating new legal pathways for genuine refugees to ensure the sustainability of the asylum system for future generations.
