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United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees questioned on Channel crossings

29 September 2020

The Home Affairs Committee examines the international legal obligations and duties of states regarding refugees in the context of individuals seeking to the enter the UK by crossing the Channel. 

Witnesses

Wednesday 30 September, virtual meeting

At 10.30am

  • Rossella Pagliuchi-Lor, UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)’s Representative to the UK
  • Vincent Cochetel, UNHCR's Special Envoy for the Central Mediterranean Situation

This will include the obligation on states to provide safety and care to refugees arriving in their country, the concept of ‘safe first country’, and obligations to those rescued at sea.

It will also investigate existing safe and legal routes for refugees and asylum-seekers to enter the UK, including family reunion, and reasons for the growth in people attempting dangerous water crossings.

Further information

Image: PA