Eighty Detainees Call For UN Probe At Harmondsworth

Eighty asylum seekers held ahead of planned returns to France have asked UN human rights bodies to examine how they have been treated in UK detention. The group say their time in Harmondsworth immigration removal centre has left them frightened, humiliated and mentally worn down. The detainees — people who reached the UK in small boats from countries including Sudan, Afghanistan and Iran — prepared a detailed account of conditions at Harmondsworth, near Heathrow. They accuse the Home Office of holding people without clear reasons, blocking or delaying legal help, failing to meet medical needs and applying treatment they describe as degrading. Their document paints a picture of serious psychological distress. Many are young adults, they say, suffering depression, anxiety, sleeplessness and breakdowns. The report records incidents of self-harm and instances where people were moved to isolation or disciplinary units, with families often unable to see or speak to them since detention began. The publication arrives as new powers take effect allowing authorities to seize the phones of those who cross in small boats and search them for evidence of organised crime. One newly criminalised activity could carry a prison sentence of up to five years — a change campaigners warn might criminalise seemingly mundane acts, such as checking weather conditions before a crossing. There is a stark contrast between the government’s tougher stance and the scale of returns so far. The first flight back to France under the “one in, one out” pilot is due this week. Official figures show 193 people returned to France in the first three months of the scheme, while 195 entered the UK through legal routes — small numbers beside the daily surge seen in past months, including a single day in December when 803 people crossed. Crossings remain high: 2025 recorded more than 41,000 arrivals by small boat, the second biggest total on record. International Organisation for Migration data show fewer deaths in northern France among people hoping to come to the UK in 2025 than in 2024 (36 versus at least 85), despite the rise in crossings. UNHCR said it can offer constructive support and is visiting removal centres while engaging with both governments to ensure any transfer arrangements respect protection standards. The detainees say they are not asking for favours but for fair treatment and basic humane standards. The Home Office has been contacted for comment. --- Managing your business finances? TaxAce provides smart online accountancy services for UK businesses with flexible monthly plans. Image and reporting: https://www.theguardian.com | Read original article