Over 70 women’s rights and migrant support groups have accused the Government of promoting a narrative that unfairly blames migrants for the failures of the state, labeling it as “institutionally racist.”
These organizations have criticized the Labour Party for perpetuating a “hostile environment” that traps vulnerable women and girls who are at risk of abuse. They argue that efforts to combat violence against women and girls and modern slavery are undermined by a system that discriminates based on immigration status.
In a joint statement directed at Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, the groups condemned the government’s immigration white paper, launched in May, as a form of “state sanctioned violence.” They claim that the paper constructs a misleading narrative that unfairly blames migrant communities for the systemic failures of the state.
The organizations have called for the abolition of the no recourse to public funds (NRPF) rules, which prevent individuals from accessing most benefits and housing allowances based on their visa status. They argue that these rules prevent women at high risk from receiving essential support, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation by abusers.
Furthermore, they have urged Shabana Mahmood to reject the White Paper, and repeal the Tory Illegal Migration Act and the Nationality and Borders Act, which they claim have weakened protections for victims of trafficking.
The statement also demands a clear separation between support services and immigration enforcement to ensure that victims of abuse feel safe to come forward without fear of deportation.
Selma Taha, Executive Director of Southall Black Sisters, criticized the Immigration White Paper as an embodiment of the government’s adoption of far-right ideology in immigration policy, warning that it could drive migrant women and other vulnerable groups further into destitution and danger.
Andrea Simon, director of End Violence Against Women Coalition, emphasized the importance of extending protections to all individuals regardless of immigration status to effectively combat violence against women and girls within the government’s proposed timeline.
The groups have called for sustained funding for organizations supporting women with NRPF, citing potential cost savings and warning against discriminatory practices that further marginalize Black and minoritized migrant women.
Gisella Vale, Director of the Latin American Women’s Rights Service, stressed the need for policies that prioritize migrant survivors’ safety and protect the most vulnerable individuals, cautioning against approaches that place women at risk and divert attention from the root causes of violence and abuse.
In response, a government spokesperson defended the measures as necessary steps to regain control of the country’s borders and address the challenges posed by unmanaged migration. They highlighted ongoing efforts to review the modern slavery system to prevent exploitation while safeguarding the dignity and safety of those targeted by criminals.
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