UK steps up fight against human trafficking with more funding and tougher measures

The high level of irregular migration to the United Kingdom is putting significant pressure on the country’s social services, infrastructure, and security.

To reduce the risks of crime, improve border management, and ensure a fairer asylum system, the British government has decided to ramp up enforcement measures.

Tougher stance on irregular migration

The UK government will allocate an additional £100 million (approximately $133 million) to fight migrant smuggling and implement a deal with France to return irregular migrants.

This move comes as a response by the Labour government to the growing number of people attempting to enter the country illegally.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that the funding will significantly enhance law enforcement’s ability to dismantle criminal networks.

Specifically, the money will be used to hire up to 300 new officers for the National Crime Agency, and for modern technology and equipment to help detect gangs transporting migrants across the English Channel in small boats. In the first seven months of this year, more than 25,400 migrants crossed the Channel—a 50% increase compared to last year.

Part of the funding will go toward supporting the agreement with France, which includes a "one in, one out mechanism" for returning migrants.

Additional funds will also support a newly established unit combating organized crime linked to irregular migration, particularly in seizing digital evidence.

Moreover, the UK government has introduced criminal liability for advertising smuggling services on social media and has begun freezing the assets of individuals financing irregular migration.

US President Donald Trump recently urged Europeans to get a grip on immigration or risk losing Europe altogether.

Meanwhile, the United States is planning to deport half a million migrants from Haiti. If they fail to leave the country after a deportation ruling, they may face substantial fines.