Concerns have been raised over the potential risks of deporting vulnerable asylum seekers under Home Secretary Yvette Cooper's new immigration plans, as new research shows Christians make up the largest migrant group globally.
A Pew Research Centre poll shows that as of 2020, 47 per cent of people living outside of their country of birth are Christians.
The data - compiled from latest United Nations data, censuses and surveys - reveals migration from Christian-majority regions like Latin America, Europe, and Sub-Saharan Africa have contributed to this trend.
The “Religious Composition of the World’s Migrants” report, drawing on United Nations data, censuses, and surveys, highlights the steady growth of international migration, which now affects over 280 million people worldwide.
As the UK government plans to deport more than 14,000 illegal migrants in the next six months, along with opening new immigration detention centres and fast-tracking asylum applications, there is growing concern about the fate of those sent back to their home countries.
Christian Immigration lawyer Attieh Fard warns that the policy could put vulnerable individuals, including genuine asylum seekers, at risk of persecution.
“This policy has practical implications and concerns … who are they going to deport? Criminals or vulnerable adults and children who are genuine asylum seekers? Or people who are victims of criminal gangs?”
Fard recounted the case of a close friend, a Christian convert from Islam, who was deported to Iran and faced persecution due to his faith. "He had to flee again and seek refuge in another country. He’s now married, living here, and is an active minister," she shared.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that the government is taking "strong and clear steps" to enhance border security and enforce immigration rules. She highlighted the new Border Security Command, which is recruiting staff and collaborating with European agencies to combat criminal smuggling gangs. Cooper emphasised that by increasing enforcement and returns, the government aims to replace the current "chaos" with a more controlled and managed system.
