Dawn raids. PAFRAS briefing number 4

Aims

This briefing on dawn raids is part of a series that provides concise analyses of key policies and concerns relating to people made destitute through the asylum process.

Methodology

Policy analysis and data from interviews with people who use the PAFRAS [Positive Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers] drop-in.

Key issues

The paper describes the use of dawn raids as part of enforcement policies to secure removals. Data is difficult to gain as people may be fearful, unwilling to relive traumatic events, or have been forcibly removed. Dawn raids are identified as a consequence of pressure to meet targets on removal, and questions of accountability are discussed.

Conclusions

Dawn raids seem set to continue or increase despite evidence of the suffering and harm they cause.