World Immigration News

Immigration Detention in the UK

Release Date: 2024-12-12
Media: The Migration Observatory
Summary: In the UK, immigration detention is used to enforce immigration laws, but unlike many other countries, there is no upper limit on detention duration. While detention is not intended as punishment, it has significant negative mental health impacts, especially for longer stays, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Research shows that detainees often suffer due to uncertainty about their detention length.

In 2023, approximately 18,400 people were detained, with the number declining since 2015. On June 30, 2024, about 1,800 people were in detention, with most being male (81-98%). EU nationals are less frequently detained compared to non-EU nationals. A significant number of detainees are held for over 28 days, with 35% detained for longer than a month in 2023.

The UK lacks a maximum detention limit, and calls for one have been made by various groups. Additionally, the government has plans to expand detention facilities, including reopening two old centers. In 2023, compensation for unlawful detention increased, with 838 cases receiving a total of £11.8 million. The official statistics exclude people held at the Manston processing center, creating data gaps in the immigration detention system.
Tags: United Kingdom

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