More than 150 lawyers and human rights, refugee, and environmental organisations have warned they are being “pressured into silence” after staff and volunteers received rape and death threats from far-right and anti-migrant groups.
At least two refugee NGOs that support asylum seekers due for deportation to France under Labour’s controversial “one in, one out” scheme have been forced to close their offices following credible safety threats.
Growing Concerns Over Intimidation
The joint statement, signed by groups including Liberty, Greenpeace, Care4Calais, Bail for Immigration Detainees, Choose Love, the Runnymede Trust and Freedom from Torture, highlights the rising hostility faced by those working with migrants. Senior lawyers, including King’s Counsel, also signed the declaration in solidarity.
They accuse parts of the media and social media platforms of inflaming tensions, noting that personal details of NGO staff have been leaked online, alongside violent threats referencing rape and stabbing.
One threatening message stated: “These liberal idiots literally won’t get it until they get raped or stabbed,” while another referenced the “reality of enrichment” — widely seen as a coded reference to rape.
‘Chilling Effect’ on Refugee Support
Organisations warn that the escalation of threats has created a chilling effect across the migration sector. Many NGOs have resorted to safe rooms, relocated offices, or scaled back public communications to avoid being targeted.
The joint statement reads: “These attacks are not just words on a page – they have consequences. Communities are living in fear, our staff and volunteers are receiving abuse, and our offices are being targeted.”
It adds that the sector, already under strain from limited resources, now faces further pressure to remain silent despite witnessing injustices daily.
Rights Groups Defy Intimidation
A spokesperson from Bail for Immigration Detainees emphasised the importance of continuing their mission despite the abuse: “Recent attacks only highlight the importance of work ensuring access to justice and protecting the rights of people who need it most. Despite attempts to intimidate or harass organisations standing up for fundamental rights and the rule of law, we know that we are stronger together.”
The statement reflects deepening fears over rising racism, migrant hostility, and the safety of those working on the frontline of refugee and asylum support in the UK.
