A Kurdish Syrian asylum seeker, aged 26, who was sent back to France under the UK's controversial 'one in, one out' scheme, now faces the prospect of being returned to Syria after French authorities ruled it safe to do so. This is believed to be the first case of its kind under the agreement announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron in July 2025.
The 'One In, One Out' Agreement
The deal, hailed as groundbreaking, aimed to deter small boat crossings by forcibly returning one asylum seeker to France for every one brought legally to the UK. Both leaders emphasised that France is a safe country for returnees. However, the case of this Kurdish man raises serious questions about the safety of such returns.
Asylum Claim Rejected
The man fled Syria last year after being targeted for forced conscription by the YPG militia. He arrived in the UK via a small boat and was sent back to France in November 2025. His asylum claim in France was rejected, with the refusal letter stating that Syria would be safe for him. This contradicts the EU's list of safe countries, which does not include Syria.
The asylum interview lasted over two hours, focusing heavily on proving his residence. The man expressed distress, stating he has lost contact with his family and fears both return to Syria and re-entry to the UK.
Statistics and Concerns
As of April 24, 2025, 561 people have been removed to France under the scheme, with 551 brought legally to the UK. However, 602 asylum seekers arrived on small boats on April 18 alone, casting doubt on the deterrent effect. Immigration solicitor Sonia Lenegan warned of the real risk of violating the refugee convention by returning people to countries where they face persecution.
The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants has launched a letter-writing campaign against airlines involved in removals, calling the deportations inhumane and racist. Over 6,500 letters have been sent.
A Home Office spokesperson defended the agreement, noting over 600 removals to France since July 2025 and a 31% increase in returns of illegal migrants. They stated that Syrian asylum seekers whose claims are rejected may face return if safe, and no one would be returned if at risk of persecution.
France's interior ministry has been approached for comment.
