How is the UK’s New Deal with Iraq Changing Migrant Return Processes?

The UK has recently signed a significant agreement with Iraq aimed at accelerating the return of migrants who lack the right to remain in the country. This deal builds upon previous collaborations to combat smuggling gangs and deter individuals from making perilous crossings of the English Channel in small boats. The current immigration situation has seen over 27,000 people undertake these dangerous journeys this year alone, a rise from approximately 18,000 during the same period last year.

Last updated: 07 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The UK and Iraq have signed a new deal to expedite the return of migrants without legal status.
• Over 27,000 individuals have crossed the Channel in 2023, marking a significant increase from the previous year.
• Not all Iraqi migrants will be returned, as some may successfully claim asylum.
• The agreement reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen international cooperation on migration issues.
• Similar agreements have been established with Albania and Vietnam under the Labour government.

The Context of the Deal

The latest agreement signifies a strategic move by the UK government to manage migration more effectively. Home Office minister Dan Jarvis signed the deal during a visit from Iraq's Deputy Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein. This agreement aims to formalise processes that would allow for the swift return of individuals found to have no legal right to reside in the UK.

Understanding Migration Patterns

The number of individuals crossing the Channel in small boats has surged, reflecting broader trends in migration. According to the Home Office, the number of Iraqis making this crossing fell to 1,900 in the year ending March 2025, down from 2,600 the previous year. This decline illustrates the potential effectiveness of the cooperative measures between the UK and Iraq in controlling illegal migration.

Conservative Criticism

Despite the government's optimistic framing of the agreement, Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp has labelled it a "sham." He argues that the deal is merely a façade, failing to address the root causes of the soaring crossings. The Conservative Party's critique highlights the ongoing political tensions surrounding immigration policy in the UK.

Asylum Claims and Migration Dynamics

While the agreement aims to expedite returns, it is crucial to note that not all Iraqis arriving by small boat will be subject to deportation. Many may claim asylum, particularly if they can demonstrate a genuine risk of persecution upon returning to Iraq. Recent statistics reveal that approximately 26% of Iraqis who crossed in the year leading up to March 2025 were granted asylum at the initial decision stage, indicating that a significant number may remain in the UK legally.

The Role of Smuggling Networks

Efforts to combat people-smuggling networks are central to the UK government's strategy. Many of these networks are reportedly operated by Iraqi Kurds, suggesting a complex interplay between migration patterns and ethnic organisations. Previous agreements, such as the £800,000 deal established last year to bolster Iraqi border security and law enforcement, are part of a broader initiative to dismantle these smuggling operations.

International Cooperation on Migration

The UK government's approach involves not only bilateral agreements but also multilateral efforts. For instance, a recent deal with France involves a reciprocal arrangement where the UK accepts a set number of asylum seekers in exchange for returning some small boat arrivals. This illustrates an evolving strategy that seeks to manage migration collaboratively with European partners.

Comparative Analysis of Returns

In the Labour government's first year, over 35,000 individuals with no legal status were returned to their home countries, representing a 14% increase compared to the previous year. This uptick suggests that similar agreements, like those with Albania and Vietnam, may provide a model for future immigration controls involving countries that have been significant sources of illegal migration to the UK.

Implications for Future Migration Policy

The recent deal with Iraq reflects ongoing efforts to secure the UK’s borders while addressing the challenges posed by illegal migration. As political pressures mount, particularly from opposition parties, the government will need to balance effective border control measures with humane treatment of asylum seekers. This poses significant questions about the future landscape of immigration policy in the UK.

What Happens Next?

Looking ahead, the effectiveness of the UK-Iraq deal will be closely monitored, especially regarding how swiftly and fairly migrants are returned. As the political climate evolves, further agreements may emerge, potentially affecting the dynamics of migration and asylum in the UK. The government’s ability to manage these issues while maintaining public confidence in their approach will be crucial.

Conclusion

The UK’s latest agreement with Iraq is a significant step in addressing the complex challenges of illegal migration. However, as the numbers of those crossing the Channel continue to rise, the effectiveness of this deal—and the government's broader migration strategy—will be subject to scrutiny. How the government balances the need for secure borders with the compassionate treatment of asylum seekers will shape discussions about immigration for years to come.

FAQs

What is the purpose of the UK-Iraq migration deal?

The UK-Iraq migration deal aims to expedite the return of migrants without legal status in the UK, enhancing cooperation to combat illegal migration and smuggling operations.

How many people have crossed the Channel in small boats this year?

Over 27,000 individuals have crossed the Channel in small boats so far this year, indicating a rise from approximately 18,000 during the same period last year.

Are all Iraqi migrants being returned under this deal?

No, not all Iraqi migrants will be returned. Some may successfully claim asylum if they demonstrate a genuine risk of persecution in their home country.

What percentage of Iraqi migrants received asylum last year?

Approximately 26% of Iraqis who crossed the Channel in the year to March 2025 were granted asylum at the initial decision stage.

What previous agreements has the UK made regarding immigration?

In addition to the Iraq deal, the UK has made similar agreements with countries like Albania and Vietnam to facilitate the return of migrants without legal status.