Bristol City of Sanctuary strongly opposes Labour’s intention to film and publish immigration raids and deportation flights.
We, the undersigned strongly oppose the government’s reported plan to film and publish the deportations of asylum seekers.
As organizations committed to supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our society.
This proposal stands in the face of the values of dignity, humanity, and compassion that should guide national policy migration and asylum policy.
The right to asylum is enshrined in international law.
Those who arrive in the UK seeking sanctuary have often endured unimaginable hardship, escaping war, persecution, and trauma. Rather than addressing the challenges within the asylum system with justice, fairness and care, this proposal risks further dehumanizing individuals who have already suffered greatly.
Publicly broadcasting forced removals will only add to the distress of those affected and could encourage hostility towards people seeking asylum, reinforcing harmful narratives that undermine social cohesion and our shared humanity.
We call on the government to reconsider this measure and instead focus on building a fair, efficient and humane asylum system—one that ensures due process, protects the dignity of individuals, provides clear safe and legal routes and fosters a society that values compassion over spectacle. Bristol Refugee and Asylum Seekers Partnership (BRASP) stands firm in advocating for policies that reflect the UK’s proud tradition of offering refuge to those in need allowing them the opportunity to thrive and fully contribute to the economic, cultural and social fabric of their new home.
Bristol Refugee and Asylum Seeker Partnership (BRASP) signatories:
Ashley Community Housing
Borderlands
Bridges for Communities
Bristol City of Sanctuary
Bristol Hospitality Network
Bristol Refugee Festival
Bristol Refugee Rights
Bristol Signing Support
Project Mama
Refugee Women of Bristol
Trauma Foundation South West
