Numerous women’s rights and migrant support groups have accused the Government of promoting an “institutionally racist narrative” that blames migrants for governmental shortcomings.
Over 70 organizations have criticized the Labour party for fostering a “hostile environment” that ensnares vulnerable women and girls facing abuse. They argue that Keir Starmer cannot effectively address violence against women and girls or modern slavery as long as a discriminatory system based on immigration status persists.
The groups have raised concerns about the proposals outlined in a contentious immigration white paper introduced in May, labeling it as “state sanctioned violence.” In a joint communication to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, they stated, “The government’s White Paper constructs a misleading and institutionally racist narrative that blames migrant communities for systemic state failures in order to justify extensive new restrictions.”
In their plea, the groups have called for the abolition of the no recourse to public funds (NRPF) regulations – a visa stipulation that prevents individuals from accessing most benefits and housing allowances. They argue that this restriction hinders support for women at high risk of abuse, thereby enabling abusers.
Additionally, they have urged Ms. Mahmood to discard the White Paper and repeal both the Tory Illegal Migration Act and the Nationality and Borders Act, which have reduced protections for victims of trafficking.
The statement also emphasizes the need for a “firewall” between support services and immigration enforcement, as victims of abuse are reluctant to seek help due to fears of deportation.
Selma Taha, Executive Director of Southall Black Sisters, expressed, “The Immigration White Paper epitomizes the government’s adoption of far-right ideology in immigration policies.
“It jeopardizes the well-being of migrant women and other vulnerable communities, pushing them towards destitution, peril, and systemic bias.” Andrea Simon, director of End Violence Against Women Coalition, cautioned that without extending safeguards regardless of immigration status, the Government will fail to achieve its goal of reducing violence against women and girls by half within a decade.
She stated, “We have witnessed how ‘hostile environment’ policies, expanded under the previous administration, increase the vulnerability of women and girls to violence and abuse, denying them their right to safety.
“The government must confront this issue to achieve its target of halving violence against women and girls within a decade and ensure that all women and girls can live free from abuse and discrimination.”
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