Following further tragic deaths in the English Channel, IRC UK is urging the new government to focus on scaling up safe routes.
This comes as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to discuss Italy’s asylum policies.
London, UK, September 16, 2024 — Khusbu Patel, IRC UK Acting Executive Director, says,
“Today's discussions in Italy took place after a weekend which saw at least eight lives lost in the Channel, just days after the deadliest crossing this year. These tragic incidents serve as a reminder that instead of prioritising costly and ultimately ineffective deterrence policies, the new government should focus on solutions that work, such as scaling up safe routes and investing in our asylum system. This is the only way to create a system that is effective and compassionate, and one where people are not forced to risk their lives making treacherous journeys in the first place.”
Notes to Editor
- IRC has warned of grave risks for people on the move caused by the Italy-Albania Migration deal. Please see our recent statement here.
- For further information or interview requests, please contact [email protected]