London, United Kingdom, November 17, 2025 — Flora Alexander, IRC UK Executive Director, said,
“Control does not require cruelty. Common sense ways of managing migration can coexist with decency, dignity, and compassion for those fleeing conflict and persecution. The measures announced by the government today will not fix the system. They will simply exacerbate existing challenges.
The promise of safe routes is critical, but making admission conditional on credentials will exclude the world’s most vulnerable people, and disproportionately harm those who already face discrimination in their home countries. Moreover, it will not stop dangerous journeys, nor create an orderly or effective system.
Refugees make astounding contributions to this country, enriching our communities, powering our public services and boosting our economy. But when people live under constant threat of removal, they cannot plan for the future, invest in learning English, or build a career. Refugees bring skills, resilience, and ambition, but they need the security and tools to thrive and contribute to British life.
Instead of punitive measures, the government should expand safe and accessible routes to protection. That means resettlement, family reunion, and a humanitarian visa scheme, so people don’t have to risk their lives on perilous journeys. It must also invest in integration: guarantee access to English classes from day one, lift the ban on work after six months, and give people the certainty they need to plan and contribute to their community.