Refugees and asylum seekers: a review from an equality and human rights perspective

This report examines the situation of asylum seekers and refugees from an equality and human rights perspective. It aims to contextualise measures taken towards asylum seekers and refugees within the broader range of measures relating to migrants and visitors to the UK, arguing that the government has itself increasing sought to integrate the measures taken towards asylum seekers and refugees within broader migration policy. After considering the policy area, the report describes the disadvantages for asylum seekers and refugees with relation to: health status, health and social care; education, training and the labour market; poverty, destitution and access to accommodation and financial support; and the legal and criminal justice system. It goes on to consider issues relating to integration and cohesion, such as racism and discrimination. The geographic distribution of asylum seekers and refugees and the situation in Scotland and Wales are considered. Finally, the report discusses implications for data collection, key strategic issues, and the scope for intervention. The report concludes that the ongoing tension between policies relating to immigration control and those concerned with welfare lies at the heart of many of the concerns regarding the equality and human rights of asylum seekers and refugees.