Quakers Condemn UK Asylum Policy Reforms as Violating Dignity and Compassion

The UK government announced sweeping reforms to its asylum and returns policy on 17 November 2025, with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood framing ‘illegal migration’ as a threat to national stability. She warned that ‘dark forces are stirring up anger,’ a statement that has drawn sharp criticism from various groups, including the Religious Society of Friends, or Quakers.

A Quaker representative expressed deep concern over the policy, stating that it aligns with far-right narratives that blame migrants for societal issues. This approach, they argue, shifts focus from addressing systemic problems to punishing the most vulnerable. The Quakers emphasize that the UK has a legal and moral duty to offer asylum to those fleeing war and persecution, and that many seek asylum through unlawful means due to the lack of legal pathways.

Quakers in Britain, through the Quaker Asylum and Refugee Network (QARN) and Sanctuary Meetings, are committed to providing sanctuary to migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. These groups work tirelessly to support individuals in need, advocating for dignity and compassion in all interactions.

The proposed changes to the asylum system include measures that could lead to severe consequences for those seeking refuge. Reports suggest that asylum seekers may face detention without trial, be sent to semi-derelict military bases, and experience prolonged uncertainty and poverty. These conditions raise serious concerns about the treatment of vulnerable individuals and the long-term impact on both the migrants and the broader community.

The Quaker critique highlights three key issues with the government’s approach to immigration and asylum. First, they point to the historical and ongoing impact of British imperialism, which has contributed to the conditions that drive migration. Second, they argue that economic inequality, rather than migration, is the root cause of public discontent. Third, they emphasize that wealthy individuals and corporations benefit from the very activities that exacerbate this crisis, including arms trade and fossil fuel exploitation.

The Quakers call for a more just and compassionate approach to immigration and asylum, one that addresses the underlying causes of displacement and supports those in need. Their stance reflects a broader commitment to justice, mercy, and humble service, echoing the biblical call to act with integrity and care for the vulnerable.

Source: Read the original report