Title/Question

How do the processes and outcomes of the UK asylum system compare to those in the EU and how can these differences inform policy recommendations to increase the efficiency of the UK’s asylum system

The Issue

The issue of asylum remains a relevant political and legal issue made increasingly important due to the global rise in migration and refugees driven by factors such as conflict and climate change. This demands a reevaluation of existing asylum frameworks to address current a future challenges and to help shape a more effective, adaptable and ethical approach to asylum claims. The UK’s asylum system is under scrutiny for its effectiveness and adherence to international law. Rising costs, increasing asylum caseload and tightening public finances call for cost savings in the asylum system. This project is a vital piece of work identifying areas for efficiency and cost saving measures. 

Research Objectives

The objectives of the research is to answer the key question of whether the UK asylum system is effective and just and then to create actionable policy recommendations based on the outcomes of the research report.

In order to answer these questions, the project will need to consider how the UK’s asylum system compares to thosein the EU. It will also need to assess how cost effective the UK’s current system is. While this is a question that has received lots of interest from Think Tanks and news articles, a comprehensive review of the benefits and costs of the current system would be invaluable in informing the debate. The project will finally need to examine proposals for improvement of the current system, using the previous research to create actionable recommendations to enhance the UK asylum system’s management, efficiency and fairness.

The project will involve a comparative analysis, addressing the first key questions: examining the cost-effectiveness of the UK asylum system including policy recommendations to be submitted to the Home Affairs Select Comittee. The final part of the project is a presentation that will present the findings in an accessible and interesting manner.

Plan of work

Week 1 - 2: Conduct a literature review, research and examine data relevant to asylum systems in the UK and abroad. This phase involves identifying key debates and gaps in the current research.

Week 3-4: Synthesising the research into a research paper, comparing aspects of each county's asylum system.

Week 5-6: Developing public policy recommendations based on the analysis. This will include actionable suggestions for making the current system more effective, cost-efficient and fair.

Week 6: A preparation and presentation of findings and recommendations, targeting both academic and policy-making audiences to maximise impact.