The British government has announced strict new laws for refugees, aimed at curbing illegal immigration and alleviating concerns about it.
The new laws are modeled on Denmark, which has one of the strictest asylum systems in Europe.
What are the most important changes?
1. Shorter residency period for refugees:
Previously, when someone was granted refugee status, they were given a five-year residency permit. Now, this period has been reduced to just two and a half years (30 months).
2. Ongoing review:
After the two-and-a-half-year period, the government will continuously review the situation in the refugee's country of origin. If their country is deemed safe, they must return.
3. Obtaining permanent residency is now more difficult:
Previously, a refugee could apply for permanent residency after five years, but now they must wait 20 years.
4. Assistance (money and housing) is no longer guaranteed:
The government is no longer automatically obligated to provide housing and weekly financial assistance to asylum seekers.
The matter is now subject to the "final decision of the government," meaning they can cut off benefits to people who are able to work but are not, or those who commit crimes.
Why is the government taking this action?
The government is under considerable pressure due to the rising popularity of a far-right, anti-immigration party called Reform. It also aims to stop boats carrying migrants illegally from France to Britain.
The Refugee Council of Britain says these new laws will not stop people from coming to Britain, but will only make their lives "more difficult."
Britain issues "strict" laws for refugees
