Over 21,000 migrants reach UK in 2023 amid rising crossings
2024-08-31 14:37- Over 21,000 migrants have arrived in the UK via small boats since January 2023, with 408 arriving in one day recently.
- Since Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister, an average of 131 migrants have crossed daily, compared to lower averages under previous leaders.
- The UK government is taking steps to enhance border security and combat smuggling gangs profiting from these crossings.
Express your sentiment!
Insights
In 2023, the UK has seen a significant increase in the number of migrants arriving via small boats across the English Channel, with over 21,000 confirmed arrivals since January. The Home Office reported that 408 individuals crossed the Channel in just one day, contributing to a total of 21,063 for the year. This surge in crossings has been particularly notable since Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister, with an average of 131 migrants arriving daily under his leadership. In contrast, during Rishi Sunak's tenure, the average was nearly 82 per day, while Liz Truss's brief premiership saw an even higher average of 210 daily crossings. The total number of migrants who have crossed the Channel since 2018 has reached 135,385, a figure comparable to the population of a town like Watford. The increase in crossings has raised concerns regarding border security and the safety of those making the perilous journey. A Home Office spokesperson emphasized the need to end these dangerous crossings, which are not only undermining border security but also putting lives at risk. In response to the growing crisis, the UK government is implementing measures to enhance border security. This includes the establishment of a new Border Security Command, which aims to consolidate intelligence and enforcement efforts. The initiative will be supported by new counter-terror-style powers and an increase in personnel both domestically and internationally. The government's focus is on dismantling the criminal smuggling networks that profit from these crossings, highlighting the urgent need for effective solutions to address the ongoing challenges posed by illegal migration across the Channel.
Contexts
In 2023, over 21,000 migrants have reached the UK, primarily through small boat crossings, highlighting ongoing immigration challenges. The UK Home Office reported that nearly one-third of new asylum seekers arrived by boat, with a record number of over 25,300 migrants granted asylum, raising concerns about border security and immigration policies. The average number of people on each migrant boat has increased to over 50, prompting safety concerns. Despite government claims, small boat crossings continue, with nearly 500 migrants embarking on perilous journeys across the English Channel. The influx has been exacerbated by calm summer seas, allowing people traffickers to exploit vulnerable individuals seeking a better future. Tragic incidents have occurred during these crossings, including the drowning of four migrants when their inflatable boat capsized. Such events have intensified scrutiny of the government's handling of immigration and asylum claims, with a significant backlog of decisions affecting those who arrived last year. The situation has led to calls for immediate action to address people smuggling and improve the immigration system, as the Labour Party government faces criticism for its approach to managing the rising number of migrants arriving in the UK.
