The UK Government's filming of the deportations: our statement with BRASP

The UK government are reportedly planning on filming and publishing the deportations of asylum seekers. Read our statement on behalf of Bristol Refugee and Asylum Seeker Partnership (BRASP) below.

13/02/2025

Statement on behalf of the Bristol Refugee and Asylum Seekers Partnership (BRASP) 

We, the undersigned strongly oppose the government’s reported plan to film and publish the deportations of asylum seekers. 

As organizations committed to supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our society.

This proposal stands in the face of the values of dignity, humanity, and compassion that should guide national policy migration and asylum policy.

The right to asylum is enshrined in international law. 

Those who arrive in the UK seeking sanctuary have often endured unimaginable hardship, escaping war, persecution, and trauma. Rather than addressing the challenges within the asylum system with justice, fairness and care, this proposal risks further dehumanizing

individuals who have already suffered greatly. 

Publicly broadcasting forced removals will only add to the distress of those affected and could encourage hostility towards people seeking asylum, reinforcing harmful narratives that undermine social cohesion and our shared humanity.

We call on the government to reconsider this measure and instead focus on building a fair, efficient and humane asylum system—one that ensures due process, protects the dignity of individuals, provides clear safe and legal routes and fosters a society that values compassion over spectacle.

Bristol Refugee and Asylum Seekers Partnership (BRASP) stands firm in advocating for policies that reflect the UK's proud tradition of offering refuge to those in need allowing them the opportunity to thrive and fully contribute to the economic, cultural and social fabric of their new home.

BRASP Organisations supporting this statement: 

Bristol Hospitality Network

Bristol Refugee Rights

Borderlands

City of Sanctuary

Refugee Women of Bristol

Bridges for Communities

Project MAMA

Trauma Foundation South West

Ashley Community Housing

Bristol Refugee Festival

Bristol Signing Support