London, UK, November 28, 2024 — Commenting on the Government’s immigration statistics for the year ending September 2024, Khusbu Patel, Acting Executive Director of the International Rescue Committee UK, said,
“Today’s statistics reveal a stark reality: even as the number of Channel crossings has decreased, individuals fleeing countries experiencing conflict and instability continue to risk their lives in search of protection. Meanwhile, 2024 is set to be the deadliest year on record for Channel crossings, underscoring the need for urgent and meaningful change.
Focusing solely on preventing movement fails to address the root causes of irregular migration. Today’s statistics reinforce this. Many of those crossing the Channel are fleeing conflict, persecution and humanitarian crises. In fact, six of the top 10 nationalities arriving by small boats originate from countries experiencing severe instability, including Afghanistan, Syria, and Sudan.
Our analysis shows a critical gap in current policy: the majority of arrivals through 'safe and legal' routes were limited to just three nationalities. This leaves the majority of vulnerable people without routes to safety, driving them into the hands of people smugglers, who will exploit them. The UK’s responsibility extends beyond border security to providing viable alternatives to these perilous journeys and upholding our values and international commitments. Any strategy that fails to acknowledge this will ultimately fall short.
We urge the government to strengthen the UK Resettlement Scheme, expand family reunion, and pilot a refugee visa. Only then will we see a meaningful reduction in Channel crossings.”