Hundreds of children affected by UK’s halting of refugee family reunion, says Red Cross
Summary
The UK government stopped its refugee family reunion program in September, which has led to many children being separated from their families. The British Red Cross estimates that hundreds of children each month, including many unaccompanied minors, remain apart from their families because of this suspension.Key Facts
- The UK suspended the refugee family reunion scheme in September last year.
- Between 550 and 1,360 children may be separated from their families every month while the suspension lasts.
- Among these children, 180 to 430 each month could be unaccompanied minors (children without adults).
- A legal challenge to this suspension was heard recently by the UK high court.
- The government argues that the suspension helps reduce pressure on local authorities’ resources.
- Critics say the suspension was rushed and has left many families trapped in dangerous situations in countries like Afghanistan, Sudan, Yemen, and Eritrea.
- The British Red Cross has helped over 1,100 families affected by the suspension.
- The Home Office says family reunion will no longer be automatic and will require meeting stricter rules, but other ways to reunite families will still exist.
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