On 15th September, The Guardian reported that Keir Starmer’s government is leaning into the hard-right immigration policies of Giorgia Meloni’s government in Italy. Like many, we find this deeply concerning.
As Nadia Whittome MP so powerfully stated, “Meloni’s extreme far-right government is no leader on asylum and immigration.” We should be building an asylum system with compassion at its heart, not replicating policies that undermine human rights.
A glaring issue: The government is considering harsh measures that could include processing asylum claims in third countries like Albania. Yet, as Caroline Lucas reminded us, “cosying up to Meloni is shameful.” These proposals are not only unethical, but dangerous. They risk repeating the failures of past schemes, putting lives at further risk.
And the reality is stark: this past Sunday, eight people tragically lost their lives trying to cross the Channel. These dangerous crossings will continue unless we offer safe, legal routes for those seeking asylum.
We have a better way forward.
At Compassion in Politics, we believe in an asylum system that respects human dignity, provides safe routes, and upholds international law. But to make that a reality, we need your help.
Starting from just £4 a month, you can join us and become part of this vital movement to put compassion at the heart of our asylum policies. Click here to join us.
Together, we can change this.
With your support, we can stand up to the spread of cruel immigration policies and advocate for a human approach.
We are writing to invite you to be part of this movement.
We only need to look at recent tragedies to understand the urgency of reforming our asylum system. We have the chance to make a real difference, but we cannot do it without your support.
So, join us today, and together, let’s build an asylum system that reflects the values of compassion and fairness.
With warmest wishes,
Jennifer Nadel
Co-Director, Compassion in Politics
P.S. I’ll be at the Labour Conference in Liverpool with our Parliamentary Lead, Anya Sizer on Sunday 22nd September at 1.30pm where we’ll be joined by Kim Leadbeater MP and others to discuss our Civility in Politics campaign. Please join us in person, if you are there. Details here.