Responding to the publication by the UK Government of the report on Safe Routes on the 11th January 2024, Experts by Experience from the VOICES Network, said:
“This report shows clearly that there are no safe routes for the vast majority of people fleeing for safety, running away from political, climate disaster or life-threatening persecution. In times of crisis, there’s no sanctuary in limiting safe routes.
If the government closes doors to safe ways, this will open doors to unsafe ways. If I didn’t come through a safe route, I might be among the people who died or lost their children or their life. For the majority of us, we don’t choose routes, safe or unsafe. We are looking for safety, nothing more.
The UK government should be magnanimous in opening the door and welcoming anyone running away from danger because no one would leave home when it’s safe. The government should understand that restricting safe routes will only benefit criminals and increase the number of people who are going to cross the channel. Let’s open our doors with compassion, recognising that perilous journeys are often the only choice for those seeking refuge.”
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About the VOICES Network:
The VOICES network is a collective of refugees and people seeking asylum. Together, they speak out about issues that affect them.
As people with lived experience, VOICES Ambassadors share unique insights into what it’s like to seek asylum in the UK and contribute to their communities.
