Threats Against UK Immigration Lawyers Highlight Growing Tensions Amid Anti-Migration Rhetoric

In recent days, a chilling atmosphere has enveloped the UK’s immigration lawyers, following the emergence of a threatening list shared widely on social media platforms, particularly the Telegram messaging app. The list, which accompanied a wave of anti-migration rhetoric, has alarmingly resulted in thousands of shares and an influx of hostility directed at legal professionals who represent asylum seekers and migrants. The surge in animosity comes in the wake of a violent incident in Southport, where unfounded rumors suggested that the suspect was an asylum seeker. This misinformation has fueled unrest in various towns and cities across the UK, leading to public disorder and escalating tensions surrounding immigration issues. The timing of the Telegram group’s formation, mere hours after the Southport attack, has raised concerns about the potential for targeted violence against immigration lawyers. One immigration lawyer, whose name appears on the list, recounted her distressing experience, stating that she began receiving ominous messages declaring, “You’re on a hitlist.” This lawyer, who has dedicated her career to fighting injustice, expressed her fear and frustration at the threats she has received. “I’m just trying to do my job,” she lamented, emphasizing her commitment to her work despite the hostility. Another lawyer, while expressing relief at a supportive police response, decided to take precautionary measures by removing staff information from their website and boarding up office windows. They lamented the absurdity of being linked to the Southport incident, given that their practice does not even cover asylum cases. “There are some really stupid people out there, making leaps of logic,” he said, reflecting on the irrational connection drawn between the violent act and legal practitioners. The situation has escalated to the point where some lawyers have had to close their offices entirely. A lawyer from the North East voiced his concerns, stating, “I am worried. I’m not angry. I am not the enemy.” He urged those protesting against immigration to do so peacefully, underscoring that immigration lawyers are not adversaries but rather advocates for those navigating a challenging and often perilous legal landscape. The Law Society, representing the interests of solicitors across the UK, has stepped in to offer support to the lawyers affected by this threatening list. Its president, Nick Emmerson, highlighted the significant worry among lawyers for their safety, their staff, and their clients, especially those they meet in asylum hotels. Emmerson pointed out the alarming nature of the threats, stating, “There is a real and specific threat to named firms with their addresses being circulated on social media.” As the situation unfolds, police sources have mobilized nearly 6,000 public order officers in anticipation of potential unrest linked to planned gatherings. The Metropolitan Police have acknowledged their awareness of events organized by “hateful and divisive groups” and have pledged to employ every available resource to maintain order. The collective sentiments shared by immigration lawyers illustrate a profound sense of vulnerability in a profession already facing considerable scrutiny and hostility. With the legal landscape for immigrants and asylum seekers growing increasingly fraught, the current climate presents a stark reminder of the challenges these lawyers face, not only in their professional capacities but in their very safety and well-being.