Reform’s asylum proposals show what happens when populist, far-right ideas go unchecked. As a community we must be wary about where this can lead.
Plans for mass deportation. To withdraw from international conventions born from the horrors of the Holocaust. To return vulnerable people to some of the world’s most dangerous regimes. These proposals must be rejected outright.
So, as an organisation led by Jewish values and history, we say: enough is enough. After all, was it not us who needed support and welcome when we arrived as refugees, just decades ago? We cannot turn our backs on those who need that same protection today.
But not only must we rebuff Reform’s plans, which are so devoid of our core Jewish values of compassion, responsibility, and solidarity. We need to call on our government to change the narrative.
For too long, the far-right’s division and hatred has dominated the conversation on refuge and asylum. Now, we need a new approach. Our political leaders can no longer shy away from making the case for welcome – and that must start with reversing the appalling decision to halve the current 56-day move-on period for new refugees, a change which will force people into destitution and homelessness.
It’s not too late to show that an approach grounded in fairness, dignity, and respect can work for all. Our country must always be there for those who need our protection.