UK sees record asylum claims in 2024
Britain experienced a significant surge in asylum claims last year, with applications reaching a record 108,000, marking a 28 per cent increase compared to 2023, reports BritPanorama.
This surge occurred as other European countries such as France and Germany reported declines in similar applications, according to data from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
The figures establish the highest annual total in the UK’s history, surpassing the previous record of 103,000 claims logged in 2002.
The OECD’s report also disclosed that approximately 44,000 individuals attempted to enter Britain through illegal means in 2024, predominantly by crossing the Channel in small vessels, up from 37,000 the previous year.
Among the asylum seekers, over 10,000 originated from Pakistan, while Afghanistan and Iran each contributed more than 8,000 claims.
The new statistics pose a challenge for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who has overseen more than 60,000 small boat crossings since taking office.
Reform UK’s Lee Anderson attributed the rising numbers to “decades of failed Tory and Labour governments,” arguing that both parties have maintained policies that attract further arrivals.
Meanwhile, Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp criticized Labour for allegedly losing control of the borders and reversing key deterrents implemented by the last Conservative administration.
In response, Downing Street acknowledged that there is “more to do,” highlighting that asylum-related returns have increased by 28 per cent while costs associated with asylum have decreased by 15 per cent.
These developments underline the ongoing challenges faced by the UK in managing immigration effectively and highlight the complex dynamics of asylum policy in Europe.
As the government navigates international pressures and domestic concerns about immigration, the political landscape will continue to be shaped by these significant asylum trends.
