The Fate of Asylum Seekers Denied in the UK
When an asylum seeker is denied and their appeal is unsuccessful, what happens next? This complex question is country-specific, and in the UK, it involves a series of unique challenges and processes. Here, we explore what typically occurs for these individuals and the systemic issues that hinder their removal.
Understanding the UK Asylum Process
In the United Kingdom, if an asylum application is refused and the appeal is unsuccessful, the individual is legally required to be removed to their country of nationality or origin. However, this policy is often not as straightforward as it seems. Despite the public's perception, very few asylum seekers are actually removed. This article explains the reasons behind this, touching on aspects like the complexities of identity verification and the role of uncooperative states.
Identity Verification and Documentation
A key challenge in the process of removing failed asylum seekers is identity verification. Even if an individual claims to be a citizen of a specific country, their identity can be difficult to confirm. Many asylum seekers do not possess valid travel documents or deliberately make it difficult for authorities to find their records. In cases where documents are presented, discrepancies or lack of records can further complicate matters.
Uncooperative States
Another significant factor is the cooperation of the home country. The success of a removal order heavily relies on the willingness of the home country to accept the individual. In the case of Iran, the UK Home Office had almost no success in repatriating asylum seekers due to the Iranian government's reluctance to issue emergency travel documents. This reluctance stems from the fact that it is not in Iran's best interest to facilitate the return of undocumented individuals.
The Reality of Life for Failed Asylum Seekers
Without legal avenues for removal, many failed asylum seekers resort to integrating into the UK's informal economy. Their files often gather dust in government storage systems, as there is little pursuit of action against them. Many of these individuals eventually receive some form of legal status, often through naturalization or family reunification. This process can take several decades, but many continue to stay in the UK undetected, blending into the community.
Long-term Residency and Integration
The current UK policy requires individuals to be in the country for at least 20 years before being granted status for 30 months. This limited status can be extended, leading to a decades-long residency without the prospect of deportation. Many individuals take the opportunity to marry and have children, which makes their legal status more secure and permanent. This reality presents a challenging situation for policymakers, as the issue of long-term asylum seekers is complex and difficult to address.
Challenges for Government and Future Outcomes
Despite the widespread recognition of the issue, there is no easy solution to the problem of failed asylum seekers. Governments around the world have struggled with this challenge for over four decades, and it is unlikely that a straightforward solution will soon be found. The UK, like other countries, faces the dual challenges of enforcing immigration laws and providing humane treatment to those who may be genuinely seeking asylum.
Conclusion
While the UK can do more to address the issue of failed asylum seekers, the complexity of the problem makes it difficult to implement comprehensive solutions. The lack of cooperation from some home countries, combined with the practical realities of identity verification and long-term residency, contribute to the ongoing challenges. The future of this issue is likely to involve ongoing debates and evolving policies as governments strive to balance their legal obligations with humanitarian concerns.