UK launches social media campaign to deter small boat migrants

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) – The British Home Office on Monday launched a new social media advertising campaign aimed at dissuading Vietnamese nationals from attempting to travel to the UK illegally in small boats.

The move comes as the government addresses the increasing number of irregular migrants arriving unlawfully via the English Channel, with a noticeable rise in cases involving Vietnamese nationals.

The campaign will feature Vietnamese-language advertisements as well as firsthand accounts from individuals who were exploited by human smuggling gangs.

It will seek to dispel any illusions of a better life in the UK for those who arrive illegally, emphasizing the stark reality of living without legal status and access to public services or funding.

The government cites a 17% increase in Vietnamese migrants undertaking the perilous journey compared to the previous year, making them one of the top 10 nationalities attempting to cross the Channel.

The total number of illegal small boat arrivals this year has reached 4,043, marking a 10% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

Despite a Supreme Court ruling that declared the government's policy of sending asylum seekers to Rwanda unlawful, plans to proceed with the controversial initiative remain steadfast.

The Rwanda bill is currently being debated in parliament, with recent amendments made in the House of Lords expected to be challenged when it returns to the Commons after the Easter recess.