Statement: Channel deaths are the responsibility of the British and French Governments

Three years ago, on 24 November 2021, at least 27 people lost their lives when their dinghy capsized as they attempted to cross the English Channel in search of safety.

This is the deadliest incident in these waters in the past eight decades. 

Yet, 2024 has become the deadliest year for crossings in this time period, and at least 70 people have lost their lives or gone missing attempting the journey.

Despite a change in governments on both sides of the Channel this year, the harmful narratives have not shifted.

The UK Government has a chance to lead with humanity, compassion and common sense to create safe routes. Instead, the focus has been on deterrence and increased militarisation of the border.

The very smugglers the government claims to be smashing would be out of business with the introduction of safe routes to the UK.

There is currently no way for someone to claim asylum in the UK unless they are physically in the country. Existing safe routes -  including bespoke schemes set up for Ukraine and Afghanistan - settle few people and have faced their own challenges.

As such, many people fleeing violence and persecution must make their own way and risk dangerous Channel crossings.  

Increased policing on French beaches means people are setting off from increasingly hidden and dangerous spots.

In March this year, Rola, a seven-year-old girl, drowned in a canal in front of her parents and older brothers, when their boat capsized before even reaching the sea. This is just one example of many. 

We stand in solidarity with the families of those who have lost their lives, survivors of shipwrecks and all people seeking safety. We support the ongoing inquiry in the UK and the brave contributions of individuals seeking justice for what happened three years ago.