The move signals a departure from regressive Tory immigration detention strategy
LONDON, United Kingdom
The UK’s new Labour government has announced plans to close the Bibby Stockholm barge, which has housed people seeking asylum since August 2023. IDC welcomes this decision and the commitment of the new government to social justice and human rights.
The barge, currently moored in Dorset, will cease operations in January 2025, with the government stating its intention to instead focus on reducing the backlog of asylum cases.
Nataliya Novakova, IDC’s Europe Regional Manager, welcomed the decision to close the barge, stating:
“The Bibby Stockholm has been a grim symbol of immigration detention in the UK. From the date the residents were moved on and until it finally closes its doors, the barge has continuously inflicted suffering on residents, including survivors of torture.
“The Bibby Stockholm represents one of the ugliest symbols of the previous government’s heartless and gimmick-driven approach to refugee protection.
“It is of paramount importance that Bibby Stockholm and similar immigration detention facilities close, but this is only the first step towards restoring justice to migrants.”
Despite the planned closure, the government has yet to specify alternative accommodations for those currently on the barge. IDC urges the new government to adopt alternatives to detention which enable people to live in the community while they await a decision on their immigration case.
In addition to costing significantly less than detention and improving people’s wellbeing, community-based accommodation is also considerably more effective for case resolution. People living in the community are less likely to abscond and more likely to accept the outcome of their case — it follows that embracing alternatives to detention is fundamental to tackling the UK’s asylum backlog.
The UK has had success with community-based alternatives in the past. A UNHCR assessment of pilot programmes by the Home Office — in partnership with Action Foundation and Kings Arms Project — revealed significant mental health improvements and a 66% reduction in costs compared to detention.
Under the previous Conservative government, the Home Office rejected the evidence on the efficiency of alternatives to detention, ignoring the positive evaluation reports on these pilots. IDC expects this policy to be reviewed and stands ready to work with the UK government on these issues.
As the UK enters a new phase in its approach to migration governance, IDC urges Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to drop the use of immigration detention and instead embrace alternatives that are kinder, cheaper and more effective.