Numerous organizations advocating for women’s rights and migrant support have accused the Government of promoting a narrative that is deemed “institutionally racist,” blaming migrants for governmental shortcomings.
Over 70 groups have criticized the Labour Party for perpetuating a “hostile environment” that ensnares vulnerable women and girls facing abuse. They argue that Keir Starmer cannot effectively combat violence against women and girls and modern slavery while maintaining a divisive system based on immigration status.
The groups have cautioned against the proposals outlined in a contentious immigration white paper introduced in May, which they argue amounts to “state sanctioned violence.” In a collective statement addressed to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, they expressed that the White Paper constructs a misleading and institutionally racist narrative that unfairly blames migrant communities for systemic governmental failures.
The organizations have demanded the elimination of the no recourse to public funds (NRPF) regulations, a visa condition that restricts individuals from accessing most benefits and housing allowances. They argue that this restriction deprives high-risk women of the necessary support, which is often exploited by abusers.
Furthermore, they have called on Ms. Mahmood to discard the White Paper entirely and repeal both the Tory Illegal Migration Act and the Nationality and Borders Act, which have reduced protections for victims of trafficking.
The statement also emphasizes the need for a “firewall” between support services and immigration enforcement, highlighting that abuse victims are reluctant to seek help out of fear of deportation.
Selma Taha, Executive Director of Southall Black Sisters, stated: “The Immigration White Paper reflects the government’s adoption of far-right ideology in immigration policy, which is deeply concerning.
“It jeopardizes the well-being of migrant women and other vulnerable communities, exposing them to destitution, peril, and systemic bias.” Andrea Simon, director of End Violence Against Women Coalition, cautioned that without extending protections regardless of immigration status, the Government’s goal of reducing violence against women and girls (VAWG) by half within a decade will not be achieved.
She asserted: “We have witnessed how the ‘hostile environment’ policies, expanded under the previous administration, increase the vulnerability of women and girls to violence and abuse, depriving them of their right to safety.
“The government must address this issue to fulfill its objective of halving VAWG within a decade and ensuring that all women and girls can live free from abuse, without discrimination.”
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