Protecting migrants

THE government has come under fire in recent days after Conservative MPs voted against three amendments to a landmark domestic abuse bill, which would have offered vital protection for migrant women.

Many charities have accused lawmakers of discriminating against these victims, claiming that authorities have prioritised immigration policies over women in need.

Police forces and charities have said domestic abuse cases have risen sharply during the coronavirus pandemic. Experts have also warned there are countless unreported cases too, with many victims fearful of alerting authorities in case they are deported. Data has shown most abusers “weaponise” their victim’s insecure immigration status, making it harder for them to seek help.

The current system determines if a woman deserves safety and security based on her immigration status. As a developed country, it should not be the case that migrants in the UK are not offered the same protection as every other resident. It is inhumane to deny basic security based on a person’s immigration status.