On June 20, 2023, the Welsh Senedd found itself at the center of a crucial decision, as the Welsh Refugee Council and the Welsh Refugee Coalition urged its Members to withhold legislative consent on the UK Government’s controversial migration bill. The Illegal Migration Bill, currently progressing through Parliament, aims to restrict individuals from seeking asylum in the UK if they arrive through unauthorized means.
Campaigners have raised concerns about the proposed legislation, asserting that it encroaches upon Welsh law, particularly in relation to children’s rights. As the Senedd prepared to vote on the matter, the Welsh Refugee Council and the Welsh Refugee Coalition emphasized that the bill contradicts Wales’ international obligations as part of the UK and undermines its commitment to being a Nation of Sanctuary.
The implications of this bill are far-reaching, potentially impacting vulnerable individuals seeking safety and refuge in Wales. By preventing asylum claims based on unauthorized means of entry, the legislation may hinder those who have had no alternative but to flee their home countries under dire circumstances. Such measures risk neglecting the plight of those who are most in need of protection.
In a joint letter addressed to the UK Government, the Welsh Refugee Council and the Welsh Refugee Coalition have vehemently expressed their opposition to the Illegal Migration Bill. This united front aims to highlight the potential harm that such legislation may inflict upon individuals and families seeking shelter and support.
By urging the Senedd to withhold legislative consent, the Welsh Refugee Council and the Welsh Refugee Coalition seek to safeguard the rights and well-being of those who have sought refuge within Welsh borders. Their collective effort aims to ensure that the voices of those affected by this legislation are heard and that their concerns are taken into account during the decision-making process.
Let us remember that our collective strength lies in our ability to extend compassion and understanding to those who have been forced to flee their homes. Together, we can shape a future where humanity prevails, ensuring that no one is left behind in their search for safety and dignity.
