UK Asylum System Fails Women Fleeing Sexual Abuse
Report Highlights Re-traumatization and Risks Faced by Asylum Seekers
A report by Rape Crisis England and Wales (RCEW) and Imkaan reveals that the UK asylum system is re-traumatizing women and girls fleeing rape and sexual abuse, placing them at further risk.
The report, 'Not Safe Here,' describes asylum interviews as interrogations and highlights issues with mixed-sex accommodations that expose women to potential harm.
Testimonies from women such as Makena, a Sierra Leonean survivor, illustrate the fear endured while living in shared accommodations.
The system's failures are compounded by inadequate staff training and insufficient support processes, allowing predatory behaviors by residents and staff.
The report also addresses issues with the Nationality and Borders Act 2022, which penalizes women for delays in filing claims or submitting evidence.
RCEW's CEO, Ciara Bergman, and Imkaan's interim director, Ghadah Alnasseri, call for urgent reforms to provide safe housing and comprehensive support services.
Meanwhile, the Home Office asserts its commitment to a gender-sensitive asylum process.
The report, 'Not Safe Here,' describes asylum interviews as interrogations and highlights issues with mixed-sex accommodations that expose women to potential harm.
Testimonies from women such as Makena, a Sierra Leonean survivor, illustrate the fear endured while living in shared accommodations.
The system's failures are compounded by inadequate staff training and insufficient support processes, allowing predatory behaviors by residents and staff.
The report also addresses issues with the Nationality and Borders Act 2022, which penalizes women for delays in filing claims or submitting evidence.
RCEW's CEO, Ciara Bergman, and Imkaan's interim director, Ghadah Alnasseri, call for urgent reforms to provide safe housing and comprehensive support services.
Meanwhile, the Home Office asserts its commitment to a gender-sensitive asylum process.
