Responding to family reunion reforms announced today

Today, the Government published it’s plan for asylum reforms, including changes to family reunion.

Here’s our initial response:

Gunes Kalkan, Head of Campaigns at Safe Passage International: “These reforms are an attack on refugees – survivors of war and persecution. Deporting recognised refugees and children, denying support, and creating a decades-long pathway to stability and security, is a major row back on providing safety to people who need it.

“With our work, we’re particularly worried about proposed changes to family reunion. Limiting refugees’ access to this and introducing stricter requirements will have damaging consequences – leaving families torn apart, and children stuck alone in refugee camps and dangerous situations.

“This comes after the Government has already suspended a major route for refugee children joining their parents in the UK. Restricting family reunion even further will only drive more people into dangerous journeys to reach family instead.

“The Government must stop punishing refugees, reverse the refugee family reunion suspension, and expand safe routes.”

For more information or spokesperson requests, please contact claudine@safepassage.org.uk.