Experts from the Council of Europe are urging authorities in the United Kingdom to swiftly implement a comprehensive LGBTI action plan for England. Furthermore, they emphasize the necessity of bridging the support gap for refugees transitioning from the asylum support system into broader social support frameworks. These recommendations form the crux of the latest assessment by the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI), which meticulously details the current landscape and needed reforms in the UK.
The ECRI report commends the UK for recent advancements in various key sectors. Noteworthy initiatives include strategies to foster more inclusion within police forces nationwide, the introduction of an extensive website filled with crucial data aimed at shaping effective anti-discrimination policies, and heightened political backing for Jewish organizations in light of the tragic events that unfolded on 7 October 2023.
However, ECRI presents troubling observations that warrant urgent attention and action.
Initially, while a comprehensive LGBT action plan was initiated by the UK government in 2018, its implementation was short-lived, concluding the following year. In contrast, ECRI acknowledges constructive steps taken in Scotland and Wales, advocating for the establishment of a new national action plan tailored for England, emphasizing collaboration with civil society to ensure inclusivity and effectiveness.
Moreover, the report highlights a worrisome surge in hate speech directed towards Jewish communities, particularly in the wake of the devastating terrorist attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, which has precipitated an ongoing conflict in Gaza. Alongside this, there has been a notable rise in anti-Muslim rhetoric, predominantly proliferating across online platforms, raising alarms about escalating divisions within society.
In the context of Northern Ireland, ECRI conveys profound concern regarding a sharp uptick in violent incidents targeting businesses owned by individuals with migration backgrounds, as well as places of worship for religious minorities. The report underscores alarming potential links to paramilitary groups, with police seemingly hesitant to pursue these investigations due to apprehensions about jeopardizing the fragile peace in the region.
Press release
Council of Europe experts calls for measures to support LGBTI people and refugees in the UK>
ECRI and the United Kingdom
Interview with Sarah Lewis, Human Rights Advocate and ECRI Expert
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Sarah. The recent ECRI report highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive LGBTI action plan for England. Can you elaborate on what this action plan entails and why it’s so critical?
Sarah Lewis: Thank you for having me. The proposed LGBTI action plan for England is crucial because it aims to create a safer and more inclusive environment for LGBTI individuals. This would include measures on healthcare access, employment protection, and educational initiatives to combat discrimination. The urgency stems from the alarming gaps in support and recognition of LGBTI rights in England, especially when compared to the effective strategies being employed in Scotland and Wales.
Interviewer: The report also emphasizes the need for better support for refugees transitioning from the asylum support system. What specific measures do you think should be taken to address this issue?
Sarah Lewis: Bridging the support gap for refugees is vital. We need to ensure that once refugees are granted asylum, they have immediate access to social services, housing, and employment opportunities. This could involve creating dedicated support teams that understand the particular challenges faced by refugees, including LGBTI refugees who may experience additional layers of vulnerability due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Interviewer: The report mentions positive advancements within the UK, such as inclusion strategies in police forces and support for Jewish organizations. How do you assess these developments in the broader context of human rights?
Sarah Lewis: While it’s encouraging to see positive steps, such as the inclusive measures within police forces and the backing for Jewish organizations following the tragic events of October 7, we must recognize that these efforts need to be comprehensive and consistent. Human rights progress should not be viewed in isolated segments but rather as part of a broader, unified approach to equality and justice for all marginalized communities. For the UK to truly live up to its commitments, these advancements must be sustained and expanded to include all vulnerable groups.
Interviewer: what message do you have for the UK authorities in light of the ECRI’s recommendations?
Sarah Lewis: My message would be that now is the time for decisive action. The UK has made meaningful progress in many areas, but there’s a lot more to be done. Implementing a comprehensive LGBTI action plan and addressing the needs of refugees can foster a more inclusive society. This will not only benefit marginalized communities but enrich the society as a whole. We need leadership that prioritizes human rights for everyone, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Interviewer: Thank you, Sarah, for sharing your insights on this important topic.
Opments in the context of the overall findings in the report?
Sarah Lewis: While the commendable advancements you mentioned reflect a positive direction, they are not enough to overshadow the pressing issues outlined in the report. The strategies for police inclusion and the support for Jewish organizations are steps in the right direction, but they highlight a patchwork approach to human rights in the UK. We need sustained commitment across all regions, particularly for marginalized groups, to ensure that no community is left vulnerable. The rise of hate speech and increased violence in Northern Ireland, for example, are stark reminders that we must do more to foster real inclusivity and safety for everyone.
Interviewer: The report raises concerns about hate speech and violence, particularly against Jewish and Muslim communities, and mentions links to paramilitary groups in Northern Ireland. What do you think can be done to address these alarming trends?
Sarah Lewis: Tackling hate speech and violence is critical for social cohesion. It starts with robust legal frameworks that penalize hate crimes effectively, along with educational campaigns that promote understanding and respect among different communities. The authorities must also engage with community leaders to build trust and create dialogue, especially in regions like Northern Ireland, where historical tensions may influence current conflicts. It’s essential that the police feel empowered to investigate these incidents without fear of destabilizing the peace. Recognition of the nuanced challenges faced by different communities is vital to create tailored responses.
Interviewer: Sarah, what message do you hope our audience takes away from the ECRI’s recommendations for the UK?
Sarah Lewis: The key takeaway is that while there are positive developments in the UK, much work remains to be done. We must advocate for comprehensive frameworks that protect the rights of all individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities. The urgent implementation of the LGBTI action plan and enhanced support for refugees are not just policy recommendations; they are moral imperatives that reflect our commitment to uphold human dignity and equality for everyone. It’s essential that we hold our leaders accountable and continue the dialogue to create a truly inclusive society.
Interviewer: Thank you, Sarah, for your insights and for shedding light on these crucial matters.
Sarah Lewis: Thank you for having me.