Change in citizenship rules: Stories from refugees

Torture survivors and refugees share how the Government's changes to citizenship rules are affecting them.

Gulan escaped torture in Iraq with her two children:

“We had no idea where we were going until we arrived in Dover and the authorities took us in. I didn’t know where we were until we were told, and then we could finally breathe in liberty, humanity, justice and fairness. At that point, death stopped following us, and we began our new life in the UK.”

“Over the years, we have integrated into the community and found happiness. Our children have grown here, studying hard and feeling like citizens of this country. Now, as we are in the process of applying for citizenship, we’ve faced new guidelines that divide us as a community and challenge how we view ourselves as people of this country. These guidelines have classified us as second-class members of the community, conflicting with the values of cohesion and unity that we strive for. This conflict has caused psychological distress and triggered painful memories from our past in my home country.”

“I personally oppose these changes and refuse to be placed in a category that diminishes our worth. We are here to contribute with our skills and experiences, and we deserve to be treated with dignity and respect as any citizen. The UK is a place for anyone who wants to rebuild their lives and give back to the community. But these new guidelines give a really bad picture of the country. We haven’t done anything wrong; we shouldn’t be punished for taking the only option we had left when the other legal ways to survive weren’t available.”

“This not only affects us but also sends a message that goes against the kindness and support the UK is known for. We came here looking for safety and a chance to start fresh, and we want to help make the community better and contribute to the country.”

Kolbassia Haoussou MBE is a torture survivor and Director of Survivor Leadership and Influencing:

“Make no mistake, this is a dark moment in British history. If the Government really follows through with blocking refugees from getting citizenship, the UK will be taking a huge step backwards. Everyone deserves the chance to settle and fully integrate into society. I’m a survivor of torture, a British citizen, and I’ve even received an MBE from the late Queen. I know many people who also want to contribute to Britain, but blocking their ability to become citizens prevents refugees from fully integrating and flourishing in their new communities. This latest decision is both profoundly disappointing and deeply damaging to the moral and cultural fabric of this country. We urge the government to immediately reconsider.”