London, United Kingdom, May 23, 2025 — Responding to the release of the ONS International Net Migration Figures, Flora Alexander, Executive Director at the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ UK,
“Against a backdrop of decreased overall migration to the UK, the rise in the number of people seeking asylum last year highlights a continued and urgent need for an asylum system grounded in both compassion and order. This trend underscores what we already know: global conflict, persecution, and instability are not slowing down - and neither is the human need for safety.
Tragically, this week we were once again reminded of the human cost of inaction, with two people losing their lives attempting to cross the Channel. These heartbreaking deaths are not isolated incidents but part of a wider, preventable crisis. The lack of safe and legal routes to the UK is forcing people into the hands of smugglers and onto dangerous journeys in a desperate bid for safety.
We urge the UK government to act quickly to expand safe routes and ensure fair and efficient asylum processes. A humane system is the only way to restore order and save lives."