The petition, organised jointly by JRS UK, Caritas Social Action Network (CSAN) and the St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP), has drawn support from parishes and individuals across the UK.
It was delivered ahead of the Catholic Church’s World Day of Migrants and Refugees on Sunday 27 September, an annual occasion to pray for people on the move and reflect on the Church’s response to migration and displacement.
The petition marks the culmination of Welcome the Stranger: Defend Asylum, launched at Pentecost by the three Catholic charities with the support of Bishop Paul McAleenan, the lead Catholic Bishop for migrants and refugees.
The campaign calls on the government to restore the right to asylum, place dignity and protection at the heart of the asylum system, and end immigration detention.
JRS UK accompanies, serves and advocates alongside refugees and people seeking asylum, including those held in immigration detention. Its work brings staff and volunteers into direct contact with people experiencing the effects of the UK’s asylum and immigration system.
Sophie Cartwright from JRS UK said:
“We see every day the impact of hostility and cruel policies targeting women, men and children seeking sanctuary. It is so encouraging that parishes, groups and individuals across the UK are calling for a different approach - rooted in humanity and dignity. As Christians we are called to welcome refugees.”
The charities have raised concerns about recent changes to the asylum system, including restrictions on refugee family reunion, the reduction of refugee protection from five years to 30 months and increased use of immigration detention.
The campaign also comes as the Immigration and Asylum Bill continues its passage through Parliament, with the three charities raising concerns about its impact on people seeking refuge.
This year’s World Day of Migrants and Refugees has the theme “Even just one of these children”, drawing particular attention to children affected by migration and displacement.
In his message for the day, Pope Leo XIV calls for a response to refugees that offers protection and welcome and enables those who migrate to become part of their new communities.
The Welcome the Stranger: Defend Asylum campaign brings together Catholic organisations, parishes and individuals in a shared call to recognise the dignity of people seeking sanctuary and put the Christian commitment to welcome into practice. Please consider supporting the campaign.
You can learn more about the Jesuit Refugee Service UK by visiting the website.
