Humanists add their voice to calls for compassionate & humane refugee & asylum policy

December 9, 2021

On the 3rd of December we added our support to an open letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Home Secretary Priti Patel, calling for a change in refugee and asylum policy that is based on a humane and compassionate approach in how we deal with those seeking asylum, and which honours our responsibilities under the International Refugee Convention of 1951.

Humanist Society Scotland Chief Executive, Fraser Sutherland, said,

In the wake of the tragic deaths of 27 people who drowned whilst trying to cross the English channel trying to reach the UK, and the proposed Nationality and Borders Bill that will give the UK even more powers to turn people back at sea to be screened abroad, and will likely result in the death of many more people fleeing war, famine, and natural disaster, we cannot remain silent. The humanist community implores the UK Government to do better and support those who are in most need of our help.

The letter was organised by Positive Action in Housing and the full text can be read here.

Latest Related Stories

Humza Yousaf talks at a podium in front of a black curtain. He wears a blue suit and tartan tie.

Humanist Society requests assisted dying meeting with Humza Yousaf

Humanist Society requests assisted dying meeting with Humza Yousaf
A picture of Humza Yousaf in a blue suit and tartan tie in a living room-type space with lamp and painting in the background. He is shown from the torso up and is positioned to the right of shot, smiling at the camera.

Humanist Society responds to election of Humza Yousaf

Humanist Society responds to election of Humza Yousaf
This image shows the meeting house at Sussex University in England, the first university meeting place whose appointed religious representative is a humanist. It is a large cylindrical building with an alternating pattern of concrete blocks and square coloured-glass panels that let in light. I has a green, conical roof.

Humanist Society contributes to new Faith and Belief Engagement Strategy

Humanist Society contributes to new Faith and Belief Engagement Strategy
Humza Yousaf stands in a blue suit in front of a balcony with an internal courtyard space and circular windows beyond.

Humza Yousaf responds to our open letter to SNP leadership candidates

Humza Yousaf responds to our open letter to SNP leadership candidates