- Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced a suspension of new refugee family reunion applications, a pathway allowing refugees legally in the UK to bring close relatives to safety.
- The British Red Cross warned that this policy could force families to make "harsh choices," potentially leading to more dangerous irregular journeys to the UK for reunification.
- Alex Fraser, director of refugee services at the British Red Cross, highlighted that the suspension could separate children from parents for years, impacting mental health and integration.
- New requirements for family reunion, expected by spring, are anticipated to include a two-year waiting period, higher English language proficiency, and financial criteria.
- Charities have criticised the move, arguing it is not a solution to system pressures and risks pushing more people towards perilous crossings, undermining humane migration systems.
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