A damning new report has exposed critical flaws in the UK's asylum return agreements with France, suggesting that individuals being sent back across the Channel may actually be victims of modern slavery.
Vulnerable People Falling Through Cracks
The research indicates that screening processes are failing to identify potential trafficking victims before their removal. Many of those returned to France show clear indicators of modern slavery exploitation, yet these red flags are being systematically overlooked.
Policy Versus Protection
Despite the UK's stated commitment to combating modern slavery, current immigration enforcement appears to be prioritising border control over victim identification. The report raises urgent questions about whether the government is fulfilling its legal obligations to protect potential trafficking victims.
Key Concerns Identified
- Inadequate screening of asylum seekers before return to France
- Clear indicators of modern slavery being ignored
- Potential breach of international human rights obligations
- Conflict between immigration control and modern slavery protections
Calls for Immediate Review
Campaigners and human rights organisations are demanding an immediate review of the return policy. They argue that the current system risks re-trafficking vulnerable individuals and undermines the UK's anti-slavery commitments.
The findings come amid ongoing tensions between London and Paris over migration management, adding another layer of complexity to cross-Channel cooperation on asylum matters.
