As an immigration lawyer with experience handling cases involving victims of modern slavery, I have witnessed the magnitude of this issue in the United Kingdom. Recent official statistics reveal an alarming rise in the number of potential modern slavery victims in England and Wales.
According to data reported by ‘The Guardian’, between January and March, the Home Office received a total of 4,746 reports of possible exploitation victims, indicating a more than 25% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. These figures represent the highest number of referrals to the national referral mechanism (NRM) since its establishment in 2009.
Modern slavery victims, including minors, have been discovered in various industries such as agriculture, the sex industry, and establishments like nail salons, car washes, and cannabis farms. The statistics indicate that citizens of Albania comprised approximately one-third of all prospective victims, followed by British and Sudanese citizens. Notably, for the fifth consecutive quarter, there were more referrals of Albanian nationals than British nationals.
It is important to dispel the misconception that modern slavery is solely limited to illegal or undocumented immigrants. British citizens have also become victims of modern slavery, highlighting the need to address this issue comprehensively.
Last October, our Home Secretary made a statement suggesting that the rise in modern slavery allegations was due to individuals making false claims of being trafficking victims. However, such claims are far from accurate. The NRM follows a rigorous process, verifying and counting only those cases that have substantial evidence supporting the claims of modern slavery. The Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority, along with senior Conservatives, have challenged the Home Secretary’s assertion, emphasizing that the majority of claims are indeed genuine.
In light of these concerning developments, it is worrisome to consider the potential impact of the proposed unlawful migration bill on the current situation. Many fear that this legislation could deter trafficked individuals from reporting their circumstances to the authorities. This concern arises from the provisions of the bill, which could lead to their expulsion from the UK before their status as victims of modern slavery is definitively established. Such a scenario would undoubtedly undermine efforts to combat modern slavery and protect its victims.
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